PREVALENCE AND SEVERITY OF RHINOSINUSITIS AMONG PEOPLE LIVING IN TAIF, SAUDI ARABIA

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has become a huge burden on healthcare systems of Saudi Arabia. It has been estimated that itsprevalence rate across the world is more than 20%. There are many challenges in the treatment when a patient has rhinosinusitis (RS) with more severe and refractory forms. Aim: To assess the prevalence and severity of rhinosinusitis among people living in Taif, Saudi Arabia and to explore the relationship between prevalence, severity and different socio-demographic factors. Methodology: This wasa cross-sectional studyconducted among people living in Taif, Saudi Arabia from May - July 2022. Data were taken from Al Hada Armed Forces Hospital, and Prince Mansour Military Hospital, using a self-administered questionnaire from the patients. Results: A total of 364 participants were included in this study. More than 58% participants were females. Most of the participants werein age group 18-30 years. Furthermore, the prevalence of rhinosinusitis was 57.4%. In order to assess severity of rhinosinusitis sino nasal test (SNOT-22) was done, the average score was found to be 33.5 ± 26.3 out of 110 in a range of 0-103. It was found that the prevalence of RS was significantly associated with several socio demographic variables such as: gender, age, marital status, occupational status, educational level and monthly income of participants. Conclusion: The results revealed a high prevalence and severity scores of rhinosinusitis among people living in Taif, Saudi Arabia. It is recommended to conduct future research with the significantly associated factors.