Unattended Allergies, Colds Drip into Sinusitis

The incidence of sinusitis appears to be increasing. According to a survey of consumers and primary care physicians, 42 percent of people surveyed reported having at least one sinus infection in the last 12 months, compared to 33 percent the previous year. Many also reported that their sinusitis began with an allergy (39 percent) or a cold (28 percent). The survey is part of a sinusitis public education campaign endorsed by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and supported by Bayer Corporation. SinusFacts.com, an interactive web site, also is part of the campaign and can help consumers better understand their sinus symptoms.

Wirthlin Worldwide conducted the telephone survey with 1,008 consumers and 127 primary care physicians who have been practicing in the United States for an average of 20 years. It found that 42 percent of patients either wait at least six days before going to the doctor when they have sinusitis symptoms or don't go at all (31 percent). This was confirmed by physicians, 51 percent of whom believed patients with sinusitis, colds, or allergies wait too long before seeking medical care.

Moderator Comment: How can retailers drive greater sales and profits during the spring allergy season?

It is all in the details. Determine stock needs more accurately in advance. A number of retailers and CPG companies are using forecasting services such as those offered by our friends at Planalytics.com. Check them out. We're not being compensated for this commercial plug. [George Anderson - Moderator]

• Survey Finds Allergies and Colds May Lead to Sinus Infections - Newstream