Allergic rhinitis and extrinsic asthma. Prevalence of these entities in Puerto Escondido (Department of Córdoba). September 18 - October 2 1983

Abstract

This study is the first research on allergic rhinitis and asthma prevalence realized in Colombia. It was made in Puerto Escondido, a small town located in the north coast of the country, near to the Caribbean. lt's purpose was to measure the frequency and general characteristics of these two clinical entitics. Results are compared to those found in similar studies that were done in different countries with other socioeconomic an geographic characteristics. Many differences were found. The asthma prevalence in the area was significantly higher than the one found in other countries while the allergic rhinitis prevalence was lower, 4.9% to 7.1 % and 4.3%to 6.1 % respectively. The multiple causes of these two diseases were analyzed in order to clarify an etiological diagnosis The main allergens and precipitating factors were established as well as the relationship between the disease and the occupation an habitat of the population.