Abstract
Background: Allergic rhinitis is a prevalent chronic respiratory problem that can impair quality of life, sleep and work. The increase in the prevalence of allergic rhinitis among the general population appears to have an association with weight. Obese individuals are more vulnerable to allergy. Since obesity appears to be linked with the occurrence of allergic rhinitis, it is hypothesized that obesity also has an influence on the severity levels of allergic rhinitis. This study was designed to investigate the patterns and severity of allergic rhinitis patients, determine the prevalence of obesity in patients with allergic rhinitis, examine the
association between the severity of allergic rhinitis and body mass index, and develop recommendations for further research.
Methods: This study involved a descriptive cross-sectional design. Forty five respondents aged 8 to 55 years recruited from an outpatient clinic in the Department of Immunology Fremantle Hospital from March to August 2007 completed a questionnaire, and had their height and weight measured by a trained researcher. Statistical analyses performed included chi-square, independent t-test, and logistic regression.
Results: Increased BMI was associated with more severe conditions (up to six fold) of both nasal and non-nasal symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis.
Conclusions: Weight control should be considered as a potential strategy to improve the health status of patients with Allergic Rhinitis, through the control of symptoms and the improvement of general health.