543 - The Contribution of Allergic Rhinitis on Asthma Morbidity in School Children with Asthma

Poster Number: 543
Publication Number: 543.242

Jessica Stern, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States; Maria Fagnano, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States; Jill Halterman, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States

Background: The burden of asthma falls disproportionately on historically marginalized and low income groups. Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a known co-morbidity in children with asthma, and effects asthma outcomes.

Objective: Among children with persistent asthma and AR; 1) Identify groups at risk for under treatment of AR, and 2) Assess the independent contribution of AR on asthma morbidity.

Design/Methods: We used baseline data from children with both persistent asthma and AR who were enrolled in 1 of 3 NIH-funded school based asthma programs. We evaluated prevalence of AR treatment, and assessed for differences in asthma outcomes among those reporting treatment for AR and those who did not report treatment for AR. Chi-square and Student T-tests were performed.

Results: Overall, 63% of the 1,030 children had AR co-morbidity (mean age 7.6 years, 61% male, 61% Black, 29% Hispanic/Latinx, 82% public insurance). Only 45% of these children reported treatment for AR. Second generation anti-histamines were the most common medication used to treat AR (67%), followed by nasal steroid spray (27%). Treatment for AR was associated with male gender (p Conclusion(s): The majority of children with persistent asthma in these school-based programs have co-morbid AR which is untreated. This has effects on asthma control and quality of life. Of note, children with untreated AR were also more likely to have smoke exposure and not report a preventive asthma medication, indicating both risk for poor outcomes and gaps in care. To improve care and close inequities in asthma outcomes, understanding barriers to treatment of allergic co-morbidities in children with asthma is necessary.