Discrepancies in Guidelines for Allergy Management in Asia-Pacific
Weiling Soon
Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore119228, Singapore
Jia-Li Kwek
Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore119228, Singapore
Sock-Yuen Kwek
Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore119228, Singapore
Xiang-Xuan Tan
Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore119228, Singapore
Peiting Xie
Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore119228, Singapore
Zihui Yang
Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore119228, Singapore
De-Yun Wang *
Department of Otolaryngology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore 119228, Singapore
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Objectives: We have conducted this study to assess (1) the existence of prevention programmes for AR as developed by professional and health care organizations in Asia-Pacific countries; (2) any discrepancies in local guidelines in comparison to ARIA, or within and across these countries.
Study Design: Web search study.
Methodology: We have conducted a study using Web search in accordance with the perspective of physicians or patients for the relevant prevention and pharmacotherapy guidelines in the management of AR as developed by professional and health care organizations in Asia-Pacific countries/regions.
Results: National allergy (AR and/or asthma) preventive programs are found in only 6 out of 17 (22.2%) countries (excluding Japan and South Korea). There exist several aspects of discrepancies in existing educational programs such as in (1) allergic disease (asthma or AR) that the guidelines focus on; (2) targeted age groups (children or adults); and (3) breadth and depth of coverage, such as for particular inhalant allergens or food allergies only. Based on the information provided by MIMS website (updated in 2011 by UBM Medica, London, United Kingdom) and the MIMS proven by the country’s local health authority, controversies exist in recommended minimum age, doses and potential side-effects of many commonly used 2nd-generation antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids.
Conclusion: This is the first study that demonstrates discrepancies and a lack of public education programmes for AR prevention and management in Asia-Pacific countries/regions.
Keywords: Allergic rhinitis, international guidelines, public education programmes, pharmacotherapy, allergen avoidance, Asia-Pacific countries/regions