Geographic and Demographic Trends in Allergen Sensitization: Evidence From a Nationwide Chinese Cohort

BACKGROUND: The increasing prevalence of allergic diseases in China necessitates a comprehensive understanding of allergen sensitization patterns to inform effective public health strategies and clinical management. OBJECTIVE: This nationwide cross-sectional study aimed to identify allergen sensitization profiles, demographic variations, and regional disparities among Chinese patients. METHODS: Data from 33,308 initial outpatient visits between 2021 and 2024 were analyzed. Sensitization to 25 common allergens was assessed using the ImmunoCAP system. Demographic and geographic factors, including age, gender, and regional distributions, were evaluated for their impact on allergen sensitization. RESULTS: Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (D. pteronyssinus) and Dermatophagoides farinae (D. farinae) were the predominant aeroallergens, sensitizing 48% of patients. Significant regional variation was observed, with South China showing the highest sensitization rates to D. farinae (63.51%) compared to the Northwest (36.95%). Among food allergens, shrimp (17.22%) and crab (11.85%) were most common, especially in adolescents aged 13-18 years. Polysensitization was prevalent in patients with atopic dermatitis (63.79%). Gender differences revealed higher sensitization rates among males. Regional disparities underscored the need for geographically customized health interventions. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides critical insights into allergen sensitization patterns across China, emphasizing the importance of tailored public health strategies and personalized immunotherapy to improve allergic disease management. Findings contribute to the global understanding of allergic disease epidemiology and foster advancements in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.