<![CDATA[Allergic rhinitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the nasal mucosa commonly found in late adolescents and young adults. In students, its symptoms may affect sleep, concentration, academic activities, and quality of life. Repeated exposure to environmental allergens is one factor related to allergic rhinitis. Handwashing habits may reduce the transfer of allergens from the hands to the face, especially the nose and eyes. This study aimed to determine the association between handwashing habits and allergic rhinitis among medical students of the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Malahayati, class of 2024–2025. This analytical observational study used a cross-sectional design and was conducted in May 2026. A total of 143 students were selected using purposive sampling. Allergic rhinitis was assessed using the Score for Allergic Rhinitis (SFAR), while handwashing habits were assessed using a handwashing habit questionnaire. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses with the Chi-square test. The results showed that 31 respondents (21.7%) had allergic rhinitis and 116 respondents (81.1%) had good handwashing habits. The Chi-square test showed p = 0.510, indicating no significant association. This study concluded that handwashing habits were not significantly associated with allergic rhinitis among medical students.]]>
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