PREVALENCE OF ASTHMA AND ALLERGIC RHINITIS AMONG FEMALE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT, SAZU MAIN CAMPUS

ABSTRACT This study assessed the prevalence, impact, and health-seeking behavior of asthma and allergic rhinitis among female undergraduate students at Sa’adu Zungur University, Gadau. A total of 366 students participated in the study. Data were collected using structured questionnaires that captured socio-demographic characteristics, history of asthma and allergic rhinitis, symptom frequency, and patterns of healthcare utilization. The findings revealed that 19.1% of respondents had been diagnosed with asthma, while 26.0% had been diagnosed with allergic rhinitis. In the past twelve months, 24.0% reported experiencing wheezing, coughing, and nasal congestion. Despite the high prevalence, a significant proportion of affected students did not regularly seek medical care or use prescribed medications, indicating gaps in health-seeking behavior. The study underscores the need for targeted health education programs, early diagnosis, and proper management strategies to reduce the burden of asthma and allergic rhinitis among female undergraduate students. These interventions will improve students’ quality of life, academic performance, and overall well-being.