Characterization of Allergies in a Riverside Population in the Pre-Amazon Region

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to characterize allergies in the riverside population of the pre-Amazon region and evaluate the associated sociodemographic, environmental, and sensitization profile.    Theoretical Framework: The research is based on concepts of respiratory and dermatological allergies, as well as studies on the impacts of sociodemographic and environmental factors on the health of riverside populations.    Method: The adopted methodology includes a descriptive study with 112 individuals from a riverside region in the interior of Maranhão. The study included individuals of both genders, aged over 18 years. Questionnaires were administered to investigate the presence of allergic rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis, along with a complementary socio-environmental questionnaire. The “prick test” was also performed. Statistical analyses were conducted using GraphPad Prism 8.    Results and Discussion: The results showed a prevalence of 26.7% for allergic rhinitis, 7.14% for asthma, and 20.53% for atopic dermatitis, with an average age of 40 years. Protective factors for rhinitis included male gender (OR=0.39; 95% CI=0.15-0.94) and sensitization to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (OR=0.37; 95% CI=1-1.92) and Blatella germanica (OR=0.23; 95% CI= -2.96 to -0.30). Risk factors included dry cough (OR=2.69; 95% CI=1.08-6.78), exposure to cigarette smoke (OR=2.95; 95% CI=1.14-7.83), and mold presence (OR=2.64; 95% CI=1.13-6.23). For asthma, sharing a room was protective (OR=0.19; 95% CI=13.30-0.18), while dry cough (OR=13.42; 95% CI=1.05–4.57) and sensitization to Periplaneta americana (OR=4.52; 95% CI=0.04-3.15) were risk factors. In atopic dermatitis, exposure to dogs (OR=3.52; 95% CI=1.28-11.41) and being a smoker (OR=6.52; 95% CI=1.02-52.06) were risk factors.    Research Implications: The practical implications include insights for developing public health policies aimed at riverside populations, considering the identified sociodemographic and environmental factors.    Originality/Value: This study contributes to characterizing the allergy profile in a riverside population, highlighting the importance of environmental and sociodemographic factors. The relevance of the research lies in its potential to influence public health practices and future investigations.