Translation and validation of the rhinitis control assessment test (RCAT) for allergic rhinitis in Urdu language

Authors

• Maira Adeel, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Pakistan
• Ahmad Nawaz, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Pakistan
• Hamza Ahmed Larik, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Pakistan
• Maheen Pyarali, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Pakistan
• Ammad Ali, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Pakistan
• Ramsha Tariq, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Pakistan
• Najeebullah Arbani, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Pakistan
• Haissan Iftikhar, Aga Khan UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Department

Surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an IgE-mediated inflammatory reaction of the nasal mucosa triggered by various allergens, leading to nasal congestion, rhinorrhoea, sneezing, nasal itching, ocular redness, lacrimation, and postnasal dripping. This condition can also cause sleep disturbances and fatigue, which can affect productivity at work and academic performance, therefore posing substantial economic burden. Positive outcomes rely on efficacy of medications, potential adverse effects of medication, treatment response, and overall prognosis.
Objective: To investigate the utility of the Rhinitis Control Assessment Test (RCAT) as a clinical tool in Urdu for evaluating and monitoring allergic rhinitis.
Methods: The RCAT is a self-administered questionnaire consisting of six questions addressing specific rhinitis symptoms.
Results: The study included 60 (35 male and 25 female) patients with ages ranging from 18 to 55 (mean: 35) years. The RCAT demonstrated acceptable internal consistency with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.759. Interitem correlations supported that the questionnaire items reflected related constructs. Paired sample t-tests showed statistically significant improvements in all RCAT items posttreatment ( p < 0.001), except for the compliance-related item (q5; p = 0.166). The overall score increased significantly (mean difference = 9.28; p < 0.001), indicating improved rhinitis control.
Conclusion: The RCAT has proven to be a valuable tool for assessing allergic rhinitis control. Its ease of use and adaptability across languages make it an excellent choice for routine monitoring and management of AR. The successful application of RCAT in Urdu further enhances its accessibility and effectiveness for native speakers.

Publication (Name of Journal)

International archives of otorhinolaryngology

DOI

10.1055/s-0046-1818632

Recommended Citation

Adeel, M., Nawaz, A., Larik, H., Pyarali, M., Ali, A., Tariq, R., Arbani, N., Iftikhar, H. (2026). Translation and validation of the rhinitis control assessment test (RCAT) for allergic rhinitis in Urdu language. International archives of otorhinolaryngology, 30(2), 1-7.
Available at: https://ecommons.aku.edu/pakistan_fhs_mc_surg_surg/978