[Epidemiological investigation and risk factors analysis of allergic rhinitis induced by Artemisia pollen in northern China].

Objective

To analyze the distribution, prevalence, clinical characteristics, risk factors, treatment, prevention and control of Artemisia pollen-induced allergic rhinitis（PiAR） in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, northern China.

Methods

From April to June 2023, a multi-stage, stratified and random sampling method was used to conduct a full coverage epidemiological investigation in the 4 districts and 5 counties of Hohhot City. Face-to-face questionnaire surveys and skin prick tests（SPT） were conducted on the population, while pollen counts were used to monitor pollen exposure levels, to observe the prevalence, population distribution characteristics, major risk factors and control of Artemisia pollen PiAR. Data processing was carried out using SAS software 9.4.

Results

A total of 1 621 patients allergic to Artemisia pollen completed the questionnaire, with a prevalence rate of 26.7%. The high-incidence age group was 13-17 years old, and the prevalence rate in urban areas was higher than that in rural areas. The main clinical symptoms are mainly nasal itching, sneezing and clear nasal discharge. The pollen amount of Artemisia reaches its peak in September. The peak time of the frequency of clinical symptoms in patients with Artemisia PiAR is about one month earlier than the peak time of pollen concentration. Under the comprehensive prevention and control strategy, compared with 2020, the application of antihistamines and nasal spray hormones has increased, and the degree of symptom reduction, the proportion of preventive medication in advance during the pollen season, and the proportion of regular medication during the pollen season have also increased（P<0.01）.

Conclusion

This study clarified the prevalence rate, risk factors and prevention and control of PiAR in Artemisia pollen. It provides rich data and basis for in-depth research and prevention and control of this disease.