Prevalence Of Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms Research Articles

Prevalência de sintomas de rinite alérgica e fatores associados em crianças de seis anos em um município do sul do Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective: To estimate the prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms and associated factors in six-year-old children. Methods: Cross-sectional epidemiological study involving 956 six-year-old schoolchildren from Palhoça, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Home interviews were conducted with mothers in which socio-demographic and house environmental conditions information were obtained, and the International Study of Athma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire for allergic rhinitis symptoms was applied. Bivariate and multivariate hierarchical analyses were performed using Poisson regression with a robust estimator. Results: The prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms was 21.7%. Children whose mothers had over 8 years of education, or who had air conditioning equipment in the house, or whose bedroom walls presented mold or moisture showed statistically significant and independent 5% higher prevalence of allergic rhinitis. Similarly, children of smoker mothers or those who lived with fur or feather animals indoors showed a 4% higher prevalence. Conclusion: Significant associations were observed between socio-demographic factors and environmental conditions in child's home and allergic rhinitis symptoms in children aged six years.

The Prevalence of Allergic Rhinitis, its Triggers, and Associated Factors in Commonwealth of Independent States Countries (Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan): Results of the CORE Study

Background: In the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries the epidemiology of allergic rhinitis (AR) is poorly characterized. The rationale and design of the CORE (Chronic Obstructive REspiratory diseases) study have been described elsewhere. Methods: A total of 2,842 adults (≥18 years) were recruited (964 in Kiev, Ukraine, 945 in Almaty, Kazakhstan, and 933 in Baku, Azerbaijan) between 2013 and 2015 and interviewed during household visits. Two-step cluster randomization was used for the sampling strategy. “Doctor-diagnosed AR” was considered when the respondent had previously been diagnosed with AR by a doctor, “self-reported AR symptoms” (was defined as watery runny nose during the last 12 months alone or in combination with any of the following: sneezing, nasal obstruction, nasal itching, or conjunctivitis). Results: The prevalence of doctor-diagnosed AR was 33.4, 92.1, and 82.7 per 1,000 persons, and the prevalence of self-reported AR symptoms was 44.7, 97.4, and 85.7 per 1,000 persons, in Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan, respectively. In Ukraine, the peak of AR symptoms was in May, in Kazakhstan – in May–September, and in Azerbaijan in March–May. Sneezing and nasal congestion were the most frequent symptoms. Pollen as AR trigger was reported by 71.9% respondents in Ukraine, 70.1% in Kazakhstan, and 68.8% in Azerbaijan. Only 35–56% respondents with doctor diagnosed AR have had specific investigations (skin test, analysis for immunoglobulin etc.). The percent of subjects with chronic (nonrespiratory) health condition was higher in the respondents with self-reported AR symptoms compared to rest of the respondent: 100 versus 42% in Ukraine, 100 versus 21% in Kazakhstan, and 100 versus 50% in Azerbaijan, respectively. Conclusion: In CIS countries, the prevalence of self-reported AR symptoms was slightly higher than the prevalence of doctor-diagnosed AR. Compared to countries from other continents, the prevalence of doctor-diagnosed AR was similar; however, the prevalence of AR symptoms seems to be relatively lower.

Allergic Rhinitis and Eczema in a Population of School Children from the City of Gjilan in Kosovo

Objective: The goal of this study was to investigate the gender difference in manifestation of clinical symptoms related to allergic rhinitis and eczema in a population of school children aged 13-14 years from the city of Gjilan in Kosovo. Material and method: About 1200 school children aged between 13-14 years, from randomly selected schools, were included in the study, once the passive consent of their parents/guardians had been received. This study covers the data analysis from the questions related to the nose and skin problems (14 out of 53 questions). Results: Prevalence related to allergic rhinitis; a) sneezing, or a runny or blocked nose ever was 34.20% and in the last 12 months it was 25%; and b) hay fever ever was 14.5%. Prevalence related to eczema,; a) itchy rash at any time in the past 12 months was 7.5%; and b) eczema ever in life was 4.2%. Conclusion: This study found a higher prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms in female children comparing to male, while no significant connection was found between gender and eczema symptoms

Relation of allergic rhinitis, allergen sensitization, and air pollutants in preschool children

Purpose: We aimed to investigate the prevalence and allergen sensitization of allergic rhinitis (AR) in preschool children. We as sessed the relationship of AR, allergen sensitization, and air pollutants. Methods: Between 2012 and 2016 in Jincheon, skin prick testing and questionnaire survey were performed on 2,958 children. AR have diagnosed on the basis of current symptoms and sign of AR on the Korean International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire and 1 or more proven allergen sensitization. Results: A total of 2,052 children completed survey and skin prick testing, and were included in the analysis. The prevalence of AR symptom within last 12 months and AR were 27.0% and 10.9%, respectively. During study, both prevalences were increased from 20.1% and 8.6%, respectively in 2012 to 29.1% and 12.8%, respectively in 2016. The total inhalant allergen sensitization rate was 32.6%. The most common inhalant allergen was Dermatophagoides farinae (23.1%), followed by Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (22.5%), tree pollens (5.3%), weed pollens (5.2%), fungi (4.7%), dog hair (4.5%) cat fur (3.6%), grass pollens (1.1%), and cockroach (0.8%). Although there was no difference tree or weed pollen sensitization, pollen seasonal prevalence of current AR symptoms is highest in spring (80%) versus autumn (52.3%). Seasonal PM10 (particulate matter with a median aerodynamic diameter less than or equal to 10 μm in diameter) and SO2 (sulfur dioxide) levels were correlated with the prevalence of seasonal AR symptoms. Pollen sea sonal current AR symptoms were significantly related to seasonal pollen sensitization, but not inhalant allergens including dust mites. Conclusion: There was a rapid increasing prevalence of AR in preschool children in the areas of urbanization and industrialization. Pollen seasonal current AR symptoms have a close relationship with PM10 and seasonal pollen sensitization. (Allergy Asthma Respir Dis 2018;6:197-205)

Prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms and positive skin-prick test results in patients with dry eye.

Dry eye is characterized by decreased tear production and/or increased evaporation rates of the tear film barrier. Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory disease that develops through immunoglobulin E in the rhino-ocular mucosa due to allergens. To investigate the prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms and positive skin-prick test results in patients with dry eye. This is a case-control study. The study included 57 patients with dry eye and 48 healthy subjects. The prevalence of allergic symptoms and skin-prick test results were assessed and compared with the control group. With regard to positive reactions to allergens in skin-prick tests, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus allergy (p = 0.0003), Dermatophagoides farinae allergy (p = 0.0003), grass-mix allergy (p = 0.049), Salicaces allergy (p = 0.006), and Compositae allergy (p = 0.019) were significantly observed to be higher in the group with dry eye. Nasal obstruction (p = 0.027), discharge (p = 0.0001), sneeze (p = 0.0003), itching (p = 0.0001), and postnasal drainage (p = 0.001) symptoms were observed to be significantly higher in the group with dry eye. Our study revealed that there was a significant association between dry eye and allergic rhinitis with positive skin-prick test results. There may be a possible link between dry eye and allergy.

Association between allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms in adults in Sudan

Background: Many published epidemiologic studies confirm a marked increase in the prevalence of asthma and allergic rhinitis (AR). Information is scarce regarding prevalence of AR and its association with asthma symptoms in Sudanese adults. Objective: To determine the prevalence of AR symptoms in the adults in Sudan and its relation with asthma symptoms and to identify the common trigger factors for allergy symptoms. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in Western, Northern, Eastern, and Central Sudan. An epidemiological questionnaire was distributed among the university students, academic staff, employees, and workers chosen randomly. The questionnaire included cardinal asthma symptoms and nasal symptoms in the past year when the subject did not have cold or “flu”, their seasonal occurrence, trigger factors, and the family history of asthma and AR. Result: A total of 3,974 respondents in the age group of 18–67 years were included. Average prevalence of asthma symptoms in Sudanese adults was 10%. Prevalence of AR symptoms was 49% in the total sample with a significantly (p = 0.004) higher prevalence among patients with asthma (72.3%, n = 458) compared with patients without asthma (32.6%, n = 3516). There was a strong association between AR and asthma symptoms in all the sites (odds ratio: 2.91–4.52). Positive family history was a strong risk factor for AR in all the sites (odds ratio: 3.38–4.24). Symptoms of AR were more prevalent in winter season followed by summer and autumn. Home dust was found to be the most prevalent trigger factor for symptoms of AR in all the sites. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of AR symptoms in Sudanese adults, which is significantly associated with asthma symptoms.

Evaluation of Prevalence of Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms in Kurdistan, a Western Province in Iran

Introduction Allergic rhinitis, like other allergic diseases, is one of the most common disorders during childhood; this study was conducted to assess and compare the prevalence and severity of allergic rhinitis in children and adolescents living in Kurdistan province. The study was aimed to provide a ground for the identification of likely causes and risk factors of this disorder. Materials and Methods This study was a cross-sectional study. In order to collect data, 4,000 questionnaires were distributed to elementary schools and junior high schools and 3,890 questionnaires were completed; as a result, the survey response rate was 97%. The study was carried out based on International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC): ISAAC questionnaire. After entering the data into SPSS version 13, they were analyzed using logistic regression and Chi- square test. Results Of a total 3,890 people, 29.7% of the subjects in this study reported a history of sneezing or runny nose in the past 12 months; it was reported more in boys in the age group 13-14 years and the difference between the sexes was significant [Odds ratio(OR)=1.35, Confidence interval (CI)]: 1.09-1.67, P < 0.01). Based on physician diagnosis, 9.37% of the subjects were overtaken by allergic rhinitis and it was more prevalent in boys at both educational levels and the difference was statistically significant in subjects aged 13-14 years old (OR=1.44 CI: 1.07-1.94, P <0.05). Conclusion The prevalence of the allergic rhinitis symptoms in children and adolescents living in Kurdistan province is relatively high and it is necessary to carry out extensive studies on its important risk factors.

Allergic rhinitis, rhinoconjunctivitis and hayfever symptoms among children are associated with frequency of truck traffic near residences: a cross sectional study.

BackgroundAllergic rhinitis (AR) is an increasing and common condition affecting many people globally, especially children. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between the frequency of truck traffic and allergic rhinitis symptoms, rhinoconjunctivitis and hayfever among 13 to 14 year old school children in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng Province, South Africa.MethodsIn a cross-sectional study design, 3764 children from 16 randomly selected high schools were eligible to participate, 3468 completed the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase I questionnaire of which 3424 were suitable for analysis; the overall response rate was 92 %. Data were analysed using multilevel logistic regression analysis.ResultsThe prevalence of self-reported rhinitis ever, current rhinitis rhinoconjunctivitis and hayfever was 52, 40, 21 and 37 % respectively. Rhinitis ever, current rhinitis and current rhinoconjunctivitis were significantly associated with the frequency of trucks passing near residences almost all day on weekdays, (OR 1.46 95 % CI: 1.16 − 1.84), (OR 1.60 95 % CI: 1.24–2.02) and (OR 1.42 95 % CI: 1.09–1.84) respectively. No association was observed between truck traffic and hay fever in the multiple analyses.ConclusionThe study shows a high prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms amongst children. The results support the hypothesis that traffic related pollution plays a role in the prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms in children residing in the area.

Prevalence of Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms and Positive Skin Prick Test Results in Children with Recurrent Epistaxis

Background: Allergic Rhinitis is type 1 hypersensitive reaction of nasal mucosa and its pri mary mediator is Ig E. Allergic rhinitis is mostly observed on children and adolescents. To investigate the prevalence of allergic rhini tis symptoms and positive skin prick test results in children with recurrent epistaxis. Methods: The study included 57 pediatric patients with recurrent epistaxis and a control group of 49 healthy children. Their allergic symptoms and skin test results we re assessed and compared with the control group. Results: Forty - six of the 57 pediatric patients with recurrent epistaxis tested positive for at least one allergen. Nineteen of the 49 healthy children tested positive for at least one allergen. Between two groups, nasal obstruction (p=0.027), discharge (p=0. 001), sneeze (p=0. 013), itching (p=0. 002) and post - nasal drainage (p=0.004) complaints were observed significantly higher in the group having recurrent epistaxis. Short Research Article

Allergic rhinitis in preschool children from southern Brazil

There are few published studies on prevalence of allergic rhinitis in preschool children. The aims of this study were to verify the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR) symptoms in the first year of life adding supplementary questions to the EISL instrument. A cross-sectional study used Phase III EISL written questionnaire in addition to modified allergic rhinitis ISAAC questions. One thousand and three parents of infants answered the questionnaire: 484 (48.3%) had at least one sneezing, or a runny or blocked nose episodes without cold or flu in the first year of life. A quarter of infants had recurrent wheezing (≥3 episodes) and more frequent in the presence of AR symptoms. Physician diagnosis of AR and the use of intranasal steroids and both antihistamines and intranasal steroids were more common among those infants with AR symptoms. The prevalence of AR symptoms was high and starting early in life.

Efecto del ambiente rural sobre la prevalencia de rinitis alérgica en escolares de Mexicali, Baja California, México

To assess the prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms among schoolchildren in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, and determine what impact a rural environment might have on this condition. A population-based, cross-sectional study using a standardized questionnaire administered to a random sample of 2087 schoolchildren 6-7 years of age (1078 girls and 1009 boys) living in the city of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico. The study analyzed associations between exposure variables and personal and family health history, and two dependent variables-nasal symptoms and nasal and ocular symptoms, in the absence of a cold or flu-using odd ratios (OR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (95%CI). The study took place in February-July 2004 and followed the methodology of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC). The general prevalence of nasal symptoms and nasal and ocular symptoms was 25.0% and 10.5%, respectively. The boys and girls who had ever lived on a farm or in a rural area had a lower probability, adjusted for confounding variables, of presenting nasal symptoms (OR=0.43; 95%CI: 0.24-0.77), or nasal and ocular symptoms (OR=0.39; 95%CI: 0.16-0.93). In the study population, exposure to a rural environment in early childhood decreased the risk of developing allergic rhinitis, regardless of a family history of asthma.

The prevalence of nasal symptoms attributed to allergies in the United States: Findings from the burden of rhinitis in an America survey

Although the annual prevalence of physician-diagnosed hay fever has been previously reported, the prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms in the United States is uncertain. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms in the United States. A self-administered 10-item screening questionnaire regarding nasal symptoms was sent to representative households in the United States in January 2004. A total of 8,708 members (44.3%) reported nasal symptoms on > or =7 days in the past 12 months. The majority of these responders described their symptoms as seasonal or perennial allergies (n = 5,944) compared with cold or flu only (n = 1,841), cold or flu and vasomotor rhinitis (n = 175), or vasomotor rhinitis only (n = 748). The prevalence of self-reported seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms on > or =7 days in the past 12 months was 30.2%, which corresponds to 89.6 million persons in the United States. The prevalence of self-reported physician-diagnosed seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis with symptoms on > or =7 days was 22%, or approximately 65 million persons nationwide. Among responders with a higher burden of nasal symptoms (> or =30 days), the prevalence of physician-diagnosed hay fever, allergic rhinitis, or nasal allergies was 11.9% of the total population. The prevalence of nasal symptoms attributed to rhinitis related to seasonal and perennial allergies in the United States ranged between 11.9 and 30.2% depending on duration of symptoms and physician diagnosis. Almost one-half of Americans experience troublesome nasal symptoms on at least 7 days throughout the year, with most attributing their symptoms to allergies.

Prevalence Of Asthma And Allergic Rhinitis In Children And Adolescents Of Nuevo Leon, Mexico

RATIONALE: Allergic diseases are the most frequent chronic diseases in the childhood and in the last years their prevalence has been increased world-wide.METHODS: To know the current prevalences of asthma and allergic rhinitis in children and adolescents of the sate of Nuevo Leon, Mexico, we performed an observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study. A validated and standardized questionnaire (ISAAC) was applied in a sample of children (6-7 year age group) and adolescents (13-14 year age group).RESULTS: 3029 children (50.2% girls) and 3006 adolescents (51.7% women) were included. In the 6-7 year age group the current and cumulative prevalences of wheezing were 8.4% and 20.5% respectively, whereas in the 13-14 year age group such prevalences were 6.0% and 12.6% respectively. The prevalence of exercise related wheezing was 3.3% in the 6-7 year age group and 10.3% in the 13-14 year age group. 5.8% of the children and 7.2% of the adolescents had diagnosis of asthma. On the other hand, the current prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms was 22.4% in the 6-7 year age group and 31.8% in the 13-14 year age group, whereas the cumulative prevalence was 26.9% and 42.9% respectively. However, only 7.1% of the children and 4.1% of the adolescents have been diagnosed as having allergic rhinitis.CONCLUSIONS: The prevalences of asthma and allergic rhinitis in our paediatric population is high and similar to those described in other cities of Mexico, although it seems that there are regional variations. RATIONALE: Allergic diseases are the most frequent chronic diseases in the childhood and in the last years their prevalence has been increased world-wide. METHODS: To know the current prevalences of asthma and allergic rhinitis in children and adolescents of the sate of Nuevo Leon, Mexico, we performed an observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study. A validated and standardized questionnaire (ISAAC) was applied in a sample of children (6-7 year age group) and adolescents (13-14 year age group). RESULTS: 3029 children (50.2% girls) and 3006 adolescents (51.7% women) were included. In the 6-7 year age group the current and cumulative prevalences of wheezing were 8.4% and 20.5% respectively, whereas in the 13-14 year age group such prevalences were 6.0% and 12.6% respectively. The prevalence of exercise related wheezing was 3.3% in the 6-7 year age group and 10.3% in the 13-14 year age group. 5.8% of the children and 7.2% of the adolescents had diagnosis of asthma. On the other hand, the current prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms was 22.4% in the 6-7 year age group and 31.8% in the 13-14 year age group, whereas the cumulative prevalence was 26.9% and 42.9% respectively. However, only 7.1% of the children and 4.1% of the adolescents have been diagnosed as having allergic rhinitis. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalences of asthma and allergic rhinitis in our paediatric population is high and similar to those described in other cities of Mexico, although it seems that there are regional variations.

Tendencia temporal y variaciones geográficas de la prevalencia de síntomas de rinitis alérgica en escolares de 6-7 años de ocho áreas españolas, según el ISAAC

Phase III of the International Study of Asthma and other Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) was carried out in schoolchildren aged 6-7 years from eight areas of Spain to estimate time trends and geographic variations in the prevalence of symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR). A standard and validated questionnaire was used following ISAAC methodology and was completed by the schoolchildren's parents. The prevalence of symptoms of AR in Phase I (1993-1994) and Phase III (2001-2002) was compared. Eight centers participated: Asturias, Barcelona, Bilbao, Cartagena, Castellón, Madrid, Pamplona and Valencia. Poisson regression was used in the analysis. A total of 25,113 schoolchildren were studied with a median participation of 81.7 %. In all centers, AR symptoms tended to increase, with a prevalence ratio of rhinoconjunctivitis in the previous year of 1.61 (95 % confidence interval: 1.48-1.76) when both phases, adjusted by gender, center, and seasonal variation, were compared. The prevalence of AR symptoms was higher in boys than in girls. Wide variations in the prevalence of AR were observed across centers with a higher prevalence in Asturias, Madrid, Cartagena and Bilbao. Lower prevalences were reported in Barcelona, Castellón and Pamplona. There seems to have been a general increase in AR symptoms. Substantial variations between centers suggested that there may be local differences in risk factors. Intense research will be required for satisfactory preventive actions.

Prevalence and risk factors for allergic rhinitis and atopic eczema among schoolchildren in Israel: results from a national study

There is growing evidence that the prevalence rates of asthma and allergic diseases are increasing, especially among children. Several risk factors are under investigation. To evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for allergic diseases, including allergic rhinitis (AR) and atopic eczema (AE), among 13- to 14-year-old schoolchildren in Israel. A modified version of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood written questionnaire was administered to a national sample of schoolchildren 13 to 14 years old in Israel. The questionnaire was completed by the schoolchildren themselves. There were 10,057 complete questionnaires available for analysis. The prevalence of AR symptoms ever and current AR were 41.6% and 9.4%, respectively. Allergic rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms ever were reported by 15.8% of the children. The prevalence rates of 6 months of itchy rash ever and AE were 5.9% and 7.8%, respectively. After adjustment for demographic and environmental factors, current asthma, parental history of asthma, and population group were the most significant risk factors for current AR (odds ratio [OR], 4.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.70-5.40; OR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.02-1.66; and OR, 1.75; 95% CI 1.45-2.13; respectively) and AE (OR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.80-2.90; OR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.40-2.30; and OR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.40-2.00; respectively). Israeli children have a low prevalence rate of current AR and a midrange rate of AE. Arabs have lower prevalence rates of allergic diseases than Jews, and the prominent risk factors for those diseases are current asthma and parental history of asthma.

Increasing prevalence of specific IgE to aeroallergens in an adult population: Two cross-sectional surveys 8 years apart: The Copenhagen Allergy Study

Background: There is evidence that the prevalence of respiratory allergy has increased in children in many countries. However, this evidence is largely based on questionnaire data, and little is known about similar trends in adults. Objective: We investigated whether the prevalence of specific IgE to aeroallergens had increased in an adult general population over an 8-year period. Methods: Two cross-sectional surveys were carried out in 1990 and 1998. A mailed screening questionnaire on respiratory symptoms sent to random samples of 15- to 41-year-old subjects living in Copenhagen (Denmark) preceded both surveys. Random samples of responders were invited to a health examination, including assessment of specific IgE to 6 common aeroallergens. Totals of 312 (74.6% of the invited subjects) and 482 (53.4% of the invited subjects) subjects were examined in 1990 and 1998, respectively. Analyses of serum samples from both surveys were performed in 1999. Results: The prevalence of specific IgE to at least one allergen increased significantly from 1990 to 1998 (26.5% vs 33.9%; odds ratio adjusted for sex, age, and season of examination, 1.63; 95% confidence interval, 1.15-2.32; P = .006). This increase remained unexplained after adjustment for changes in questionnaire variables on lifestyle and home environment. The clinical significance of this increase was underlined by a corresponding increase in the prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms associated with specific IgE positivity. Conclusion: We found that the prevalence of specific IgE positivity to aeroallergens increased in an adult Danish general population from 1990 and 1998. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 2000;106:247-52.)

Increasing prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms in an adult Danish population.

There is evidence that the prevalence of respiratory allergy is increasing. This is mainly based on studies in children and young adults. The aim of the study was to compare the prevalences of self-reported symptoms of respiratory allergy among Danish adults in two surveys 8 years apart. Identical questionnaires were mailed to two random general population samples in 1989 and 1997. The response rates were 86.1% (n = 3603) and 86.4% (n = 817), respectively. The sampling frame and sampling method were identical in both surveys. The changes in the prevalences of symptoms were expressed by sex- and age-adjusted odds ratios comparing 1997 to 1989. We found a significant increase in the prevalence of seasonal rhinitis symptoms (OR=1.6, 95% CI 1.4-1.9), rhinitis symptoms on exposure to pollen (OR =1.6, 95% CI 1.4-1.9), rhinitis symptoms on exposure to furry animals (odds ratio 1.6, 95% CI 1.3-2.0), rhinitis symptoms on exposure to house dust (OR = 1.3, 95% CI 1.1-1.6), and breathlessness on exposure to pollen (OR = 1.5, 95% CI 1.0-2.0). The observed increases were independent of sex and age. The questionnaire was validated in relation to allergen skin test reactivity in a subgroup of the responders to the 1989 survey. When the estimated associations between symptoms and skin test reactivity were considered, the results suggested an increase in allergy to pollen and animal dander. In conclusion, we found evidence of increased prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms associated with skin test reactivity.