Self-reported respiratory allergic symptoms and eczema in schoolchildren in Peja region-west Kosovo

Asthma, allergic rhinitis, and eczema are widespread chronic allergic disorders in children. Understanding their prevalence and symptoms among school-aged populations is essential for effective public health interventions. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of these conditions among schoolchildren in the Peja Region of West Kosovo and to explore the diverse symptom-based phenotypes. In the 2017/2018 academic year, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in urban schools, utilizing a questionnaire based on the ISAAC protocol. The study involved 1432 children aged 10 to 14. The findings revealed a self-reported asthma prevalence of 5.6%, with 66.3% confirmed by a physician. Allergic rhinitis symptoms were noted in 14.1% of participants, with a confirmation rate of 53.5%, while eczema was reported by 5.7%, with a 35.8% confirmation rate. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and eczema in the Peja Region. It highlights a low prevalence of asthma and eczema but a higher occurrence of allergic rhinitis, emphasizing the need for tailored public health strategies to address these varied allergic conditions.