Factors Affecting Allergic Diseases in General High School Students

Abstract

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the relevant factors of allergic disease in general high school students in Korea. It also aims to provide key data for the effective prevention and management of allergic diseases. Methods Study subjects were general high school students participating in the 11th (2015) Online Survey on Adolescents’ Health Behaviors. Participant demographics, lifestyle factors, and type of allergic disease were expressed in absolute values and percentages. The binominal logistic regression model was used for statistical analysis of characteristics and relevant factors of allergic disease. Analysis was performed by complex sample design using SPSS/WIN 18.0. The statistical significance was defined as p<0.05 with a two-sided test. Results Asthma was associated with sex, high school grade, body mass index (BMI), stress, smoking, breakfast, fast-food and vegetable consumption, milk, and walking. Allergic rhinitis correlated with sex, high school grade, residential area, economic statis, stress, vegetable consumption, and sleep satisfaction. Atopic dermatitis was associated with sex, BMI, residential area, economic status, stress, fast-food consumption, sleep satisfaction, and walking. Conclusions This study highlights the need for the development of strategies promoting a healthy lifestyle associated with allergic disease. Furthermore, a longitudinal study examining the association between medical and family history and allergic disease is required. This would contribute to the understanding of individual predisposition to allergic disease. Key words: General high school students, Allergy disease, Physical activity