Background The epidemiological characteristics of allergic rhinitis (AR) are different across countries or regions. Such information has been rarely reported in tropical areas in China.

Objective This study investigates the epidemiological features and influencing factors of AR in children in Haikou.

Methods A cluster sampling survey on AR using electronic questionnaires was conducted in 2 584 children from 16 preschools and primary schools in Haikou. The epidemiological features of self-reported AR prevalence, clinical symptoms, distribution of allergens, and comorbidities were analyzed. Logistic regression analysis was performed on potential influencing factors of AR in children.

Results Among the 2 584 questionnaires returned, there were 2 386 valid questionnaires, and the valid response rate was 92.3%. There were 1 249 boys and 1 137 girls aged (7.3±2.4) years. The self-reported prevalence rate of AR was 11.69%. The prevalence rates of boys, 7-to-12-yearold children, urban children, and children with a family history of AR were higher than those of girls, 3-to-6-year-old children, rural children, and children without a family history of AR (P < 0.05). There was no monthly difference in AR incidence (P>0.05). The main clinical symptoms of AR were sneezing (87.5%) and runny nose (70.6%), and the most common allergens was dust mites (52.3%). Among comorbidities, allergic conjunctivitis accounted for 26.5%, and asthma accounted for 12.5%. The multiple logistic regression analysis results showed that family history of AR (OR=2.237, 95% CI:1.068-4.683), boys (OR=1.774, 95% CI:1.117-2.817), 7-to-12-year-old children (OR=1.829, 95% CI:1.044-3.205), and urban residence (OR=1.721, 95%CI:1.101-2.691) were independent risk factors for self-reported AR in children.

Conclusion The prevalence of AR is higher in the children with a family history of AR, boys, 7-to-12-year-old children, urban residents in Haikou.