Prevalence and risk factors of allergic rhinitis among the population in the South-Western Region of Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

Background: Number of people worldwide suffer from allergy disorders such as allergic rhinitis (AR), which are influenced by exposure to the environment and genetic predisposition. The prevalence of AR is rising worldwide, with numbers varying based on regional and national exposure to the risk factors. Method: This was a cross-sectional study carried out among 400 adults living in the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia. The study employed a questionnaire in data collection, which was developed on the Google platform and shared through various social media platforms such as Telegram and WhatsApp groups. The data collected was coded in Excel and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 27 software. Results: The results of the study revealed a high prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms among participants, with (71.8%) experiencing sneezing, 276 (69.0%) a runny nose, and 277 (69.2%) a blocked nose, often accompanied by itchy eyes 185 (66.8%) being common. Seasonal patterns of nasal problems were observed, with common triggers being house dust, perfumes, and dust mites. A total of 375 (93.8%) respondents acknowledged that they used nasal sprays and avoided triggers to control their symptoms. The study also highlighted the connection between allergic rhinitis, asthma, and conjunctivitis. Moreover, 382 participants (95.5%) correctly identified the primary symptoms and indicators of allergic rhinitis, which include rhinorrhea, sneezing, nasal congestion, and itching. Finally, the bivariate analysis reveals a statistically significant association between gender, employment status, smoking status, history of eczema or asthma, and allergic rhinitis, and family history of asthma, eczema, or allergic rhinitis and the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis by doctors (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study revealed there was a high prevalence of allergic rhinitis in the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia, with sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion being the most commonly reported symptoms. Environmental factors, such as dust and tobacco smoke, along with the strong connection with allergic rhinitis. Social demographic variables like gender, employment status, smoking, and family history were identified as significant risk factors for the condition.