Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA)

TLDR

Allergic rhinitis is a worldwide health problem with rising prevalence and significant economic and social impacts. ARIA, an NGO partnering with WHO, aims to advance allergic rhinitis management through three key developments. The guidelines are intended for use by specialists and primary caregivers alike. ARIA released evidence‑based guidelines, introduced a new rhinitis subclassification with stepwise management, and highlighted the need for integrated treatment of comorbid asthma and rhinitis.

Abstract

Summary Allergic rhinitis is a worldwide health problem and prevalence of the disease is increasing, with economic and social consequences. An initiative from ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma), an NGO working with the World Health Organization, has forwarded three main developments in the management of allergic rhinitis. Firstly, ARIA has provided new evidence‐based guidelines for the treatment of rhinitis that can be used worldwide, including in developing countries. The guidelines were designed to be used by the specialist as well as by the primary caregiver. Secondly, ARIA proposes a new subdivision of allergic rhinitis and suggests evidence‐based management of the disease using a stepwise approach. Thirdly, ARIA notes that asthma and rhinitis are common comorbidities and proposes that allergic patients are treated globally to combine treatment of upper and lower airway disease.