Association Between Allergic Rhinitis and Serum Lead in American Adults

Abstract

Background: Studies have shown a link between allergic rhinitis (AR) and serum lead, but large population-based studies are currently lacking. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between AR and serum lead levels in adult samples from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods: This cross-sectional study included 1993 adults aged 20-85 years with complete inhalation allergen testing, serum heavy metal detection and model covariate information in the National Health and Nutrition Survey from 2005 to 2006. Participants were categorized into AR group and non-AR group based on self-reported allergy questionnaire and inhalation allergen-specific IgE level. The analysis was conducted using R ( http://www.R-project.org) and EmpowerStats software (www.empowerstats.com, X & Y solution.Inc.Boston MA ). Results: The mean age of the study population was 48.75 years; 43.50% of the subjects were males, and 56.50% were females. Compared to individuals with low serum lead levels, those with high serum lead levels had a 36% higher odds ratio for AR (Odds Ratio [OR]: 1.36, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.06-1.75), P = 0.0171). After adjusting for all other confounding factors, the association between serum lead levels and AR remained statistically significant (OR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.02-2.54, P = 0.0411). Conclusions: The present cross-sectional study identified a significant correlation between AR and serum lead levels, indicating that adults with elevated serum lead concentrations are at an increased risk of developing AR. Further research is needed to confirm the validity of this association.