July 21, 2014

Epidemiology of allergic rhinitis in Quebec: from a 2008 population-based survey


M. Canuel, MSc; G. Lebel, MSc
Author references:
Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ), Québec, Quebec, Canada
Correspondence: Magalie Canuel, INSPQ, 945, avenue Wolfe, 4eétage, Québec, QC G1V 5B3; Tel.: 418-650-5115, ext. 5224; Fax: 418-654-3144; Email: magalie.canuel@inspq.qc.ca

Abstract

Introduction: Our objective was to estimate the prevalence of symptoms and the proportion of a lifetime physician-based diagnosis of allergic rhinitis (AR) in the province of Quebec among people aged 15 years and older.
Methods: The 2008 Quebec Population Health Survey provided data on the prevalence of symptoms and proportion of lifetime physician-based diagnoses of AR. The prevalence of symptoms was defined as the proportion of individuals who, in the absence of a cold or the flu, had nasal and ocular symptoms in the 12 months before the survey.
Results: The reported prevalence of AR symptoms was 17%, although 9% did not have a diagnosed condition. Reported prevalence was lowest in those aged 65 years and older (12%) and was more common among women (19%) than men (15%). The estimated prevalence of lifetime physician-based diagnosis was 17%.
Conclusion: AR prevalence is high in Quebec with about 1 in 6 people experiencing symptoms. The condition is underdiagnosed and might also be undertreated.
Keywords: adult, allergic rhinitis, allergy, diagnosis, prevalence, rhinoconjunctivitis, symptoms

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