Exposure to outdoor aerospora and associated respiratory health risks among adults in Potchefstroom, North-West province, South Africa.

BACKGROUND

Data on allergic rhinitis and respiratory health metrics are limited for South Africa, with grass pollen as a key outdoor aeroallergen. Exotic trees such as plane trees and ragweed produce highly allergenic pollen, dominating indigenous trees and weeds. Pollen allergy prevalence data is lacking in cities of North-West province such as Potchefstroom.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to (i) assess the prevalence of allergies to major aeroallergens, including Poaceae (grasses), (cypresses), (plane tree), (elm), (oak), (birch), (olive), (sagebrush), (amaranth), (plantain), (mulberry), and (ragweed), along with fungal spores such as , , and , and (ii) investigate the monthly incidence of major aeroallergens and reactivity levels in sensitized adults in Potchefstroom.

METHODS

Skin prick tests (SPTs) were performed on 202 adults aged 18-64 years with confirmed allergic symptoms during a field campaign at North-West University (NWU)'s Potchefstroom campus. A test panel of grass, weed, tree, and fungal spore extracts previously identified via aerobiological monitoring was used. Symptom scores were recorded using ISAAC questionnaires; 's statistical correlation between symptom frequency and monthly aeroallergen concentrations were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among the participants, 184 (91%) exhibited positive SPT reactions: 104 (57%) are monosensitized to pollen, 45 (24%) to fungal spores, and 35 (19%) are polysensitized. Aeroallergen prevalence was higher in females (73%) than in males (27%). The most common pollen allergens were (Bermuda grass) (85%), (maize) (46%), spp. (plane tree) (35%), and (field elm) (33%). Among fungal spores, was the most common (93%), followed by (27%). A significant and positive statistical correlation was found between allergic rhinitis symptoms and monthly pollen concentrations of , , , and .

DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION: This pilot study linked aeroallergens detected in Potchefstroom with allergy profiles of local residents. The findings highlight the need for more comprehensive regional studies that integrate allergen testing with aerobiological data. Raising awareness and implementing health strategies are essential for managing allergic rhinitis in South Africa. More affordable and available SPTs kits, adapted to allergy prevalence in South Africa, are strongly suggested.