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Original Text with Corrections & Explanations
Allergic rhinitis (AR), commonly known as hay fever, affects an estimated 10% to 30% of adults and up to 40% of children, according to the Cleveland Clinic.2 Despite its prevalence, AR remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to significant reductions in quality of life and economic productivity.
A recent qualitative study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: Global explored patient perspectives on AR and allergen immunotherapy (AIT). Researchers interviewed 25 participants with AR who had received or were considering AIT. The study aimed to understand patients’ experiences, expectations, and barriers to accessing AIT.
Participants’ expectations regarding AIT varied based on their prior experience with allergy treatments. “Participants with prior experience with allergy treatments often had more realistic expectations over years, whereas treatment-naive participants often expected immediate symptom resolution,” the authors wrote. “Some participants reported that their expectations for symptom betterment were met, whereas others hoped for more benefit with continued therapy. Most participants reported satisfaction with AIT efficacy.”
Barriers to AIT access emerged as a central finding.Participants cited high out-of-pocket costs, lack of government reimbursement, limited geographic availability of prescribers, and logistical challenges such as frequent clinic visits. Employment status appeared to influence access, with unemployed participants less likely to initiate or continue therapy.
The study had several limitations, the authors noted. Patients were recruited from a tertiary hospital allergy clinic, which overrepresented those with moderate to severe AR and may limit the study’s generalizability. Responses may also have been influenced by recall bias,although the researchers tried to minimize recall bias by asking probing and clarifying questions.
The authors concluded that AR remains underrecognized as a condition with significant functional and economic consequences. They emphasized the need for improved public awareness, clearer patient education regarding treatment expectations, and policy-level interventions to expand equitable access to AIT.
“The uptake of AIT is constrained by direct medication costs, insufficient public awareness, and limited prescriber availability,” the authors concluded. “The findings of this study offer insights for health care professionals and policymakers to formulate strategies to enhance AR management and improve AIT access for eligible patients.”
References
1. Jacob J, Joyce C, Lloyd M, Lowe A, Katelaris C. Patient perspectives of allergic rhinitis and allergen immunotherapy: A qualitative study. J Allergy Clin Immunol Glob. 2025;5(2):100621. doi:10.1016/j.jacig.2025.100621
2. Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever). Cleveland Clinic. updated September 21,2023. Accessed january 23, 2026. Related reading