부산대학교 도서관

Epidemiological studies have suggested that although the prevalence of allergic rhinitis (AR) is increasing worldwide, there is a wide variation in the distribution of this condition within different populations; the prevalence of nasal allergies appears to be lower in Eastern Europe and South and Central Asia, compared with Western Europe and other English-speaking countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. Recent epidemiological surveys performed according to Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) guidelines suggest that the new AR classification of intermittent and persistent AR is both independent and not equivalent to the traditional classification of seasonal AR and perennial AR, respectively. Studies investigating the economic impact of AR have demonstrated that the disease exerts a significant economic burden on society, given the high prevalence of the condition and its impact on direct medical costs and indirect costs. Other studies have indicated that the overall economic burden of AR is compounded by the prevalence of comorbid conditions such as asthma, allergic conjunctivitis, sinusitis, otitis media, and upper respiratory tract infections, which are often associated with AR. Furthermore, there is evidence that the lack of treatment, undertreatment, or non-adherence to treatment can increase the overall cost of treatment for AR. Collectively, these studies suggest that the economic impact of AR and its comorbidities are considerable and driven by the epidemiology of these conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]