TRENDS IN ALLERGEN EXPOSURE AMONG ATHLETES WITH ALLERGIC DISEASES IN QINGDAO, CHINA (2010-2021)

Abstract

This study aims to delineate the evolving patterns of allergen sensitivities among athletes with allergic diseases over a twelve-year period from 2010 to 2021 in Qingdao, offering insights into localized allergic triggers and informing preventive strategies in sports medicine. A cohort of 4,515 athletes with clinically diagnosed allergic conditions underwent skin prick tests (SPT) to identify sensitivities to a variety of inhalant and ingested allergens. Statistical analysis was conducted to assess the annual variation, along with age and gender differences in allergen reactivity. Notably, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Dermatophagoides farinae, mussel, brine shrimp, and carp emerged as the predominant allergens, with a significant annual increase in sensitization rates (χ2=398.8, P<0.05). Gender and across the three age categories (3-5, 6-17, ≥18 years), sensitivities to these allergens were consistent, except for a significant variation observed with Dermatophagoides farinae among different age groups (χ2=20.2170, P<0.05). Additionally, a considerable majority (63.6%) of the athletes tested positive for multiple allergens, underscoring the complexity of allergic responses in this population. The findings underscore the necessity for comprehensive allergen management and tailored desensitization protocols in athletic healthcare, particularly addressing predominant triggers such as dust mites and seafood, to enhance the quality of life and performance of affected athletes.