Knowledge and management of allergic rhinitis by general practitioners in Benin City

Abstract

Background: Allergic rhinitis is a common manifestation of atopy among children, affecting up to 10%–20% of the world's population. Usually presents with rhinorae and sneezing and may co-exist with other allergic conditions like asthma. Aims: The aim of this study is to evaluate the knowledge and appropriateness of management of allergic rhinitis by general practitioners in Benin City, Nigeria. To determine physician-related factors that are related to the management of allergic rhinitis by general practitioners in Benin City, Nigeria. Settings and Design: This was descriptive cross-sectional study. Methods: General practitioners that gave consent and were non-experts were interviewed with the help of a researcher-administered questionnaire. Data generated were analysed using SPSS software version 19.0. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics performed and group Chi-square was used to check for the relationship between variables. Results: Sixty-three (63) general practitioners had complete data, of which 45 were male, 11 were consultants. A total of 50 (79.4%) worked in medical centre, whereas 7 (11.1%) worked in private hospitals. Twenty-nine (46%) of the respondents had practiced for 1–10 years, 19 (30.2%) of the respondents were aged 20–30 years. Twenty-nine (46%) of the respondents had good knowledge of symptoms of allergic rhinitis while 6 (9.5%) had poor knowledge. In terms of differentials, 19 (30.2%) each had very good knowledge and good knowledge, respectively. However, only 2 (3.2%) had very good knowledge of treatment and 9 (14.3%) has good knowledge of treatment. Thirty-six (57.1%) had poor knowledge of treatment. Conclusions: Despite good knowledge of symptoms and differential diagnosis, the respondents had poor knowledge of standard treatment protocol in the management of allergic rhinitis.