Global Perspectives on Challenges and Opportunities in Managing Allergic Rhinitis in Children: Taking the School Environment as a Case

The prevalence of allergic rhinitis (AR) varies between countries but is increasing globally as urbanisation and climate change increase exposure to allergens and irritants such as pollution. For children, schools are a problematic source of allergens and irritants that exacerbate the disease. AR can negatively impact a child’s capacity to attend and perform in school. Appropriate treatment of AR can help to mitigate this impact, but avoidance strategies are also crucial in managing this chronic disease. In select children, allergen immunotherapy may also play an important role. EMJ spoke to three experts in allergy and immunology from China, Portugal, and the USA, who described how and why the prevalence of AR is evolving, and what impacts AR can have on children. They emphasised the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment for children using standardised treatment guidelines; controlling allergen and irritant exposure in the school environment; and improving the quality of health education among patients, caregivers, school staff, policy makers, and HCPs including paediatricians, general practitioners, and pharmacists, to promote and optimise AR management. They also highlighted the need for strategies to provide allergy-friendly schools to ensure that children with AR can thrive academically, physically, and socially.