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Published on: August 22, 2012
A prevalence survey of skin diseases in Nigerian children
O M Odueko1, O Onayemi, G A Oyedeji
1Department of Paediatrics & Child Health, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.
Insights
Nigerian children aged 0-12 years experience a 9.8% prevalence of dermatological conditions, with tinea, scabies, and impetigo being most common. Low socioeconomic status is a key factor, highlighting the need for health education and improved living conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Dermatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Childhood dermatological conditions represent a significant public health concern in Nigeria.
- Understanding the prevalence and associated factors is crucial for effective intervention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of skin diseases among Nigerian children aged 0-12 years.
- To identify the most common dermatological conditions and their predisposing factors.
Main Methods:
- A prevalence survey was conducted at the Urban Comprehensive Health Centre, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.
- Data was collected from 5001 children between July 1995 and June 1996.
Main Results:
- A total of 9.8% (492) of children presented with dermatological conditions.
- The most prevalent conditions were tinea (17.1%), scabies (16.5%), and impetigo (15.7%).
- Low socioeconomic status was identified as a major predisposing factor for tinea, scabies, and impetigo.
Conclusions:
- Childhood skin diseases are prevalent in Nigeria, with significant links to socioeconomic factors.
- Targeted health education and socioeconomic improvements are recommended to reduce disease burden.
Abstract:
A prevalence survey of 5001 Nigerian children aged 0-12 years seen at the Urban Comprehensive Health Centre, Ile-Ife, Nigeria between July 1995 and June 1996 revealed that 492 children (9.8%) had dermatological conditions. Tinea (17.1%), scabies (16.5%) and impetigo (15.7%) were the most commonly observed childhood skin diseases and were followed by miliaria (9.8%), eczema (7.1%) and diaper dermatitis (7.0%) respectively. The major predisposing factor to acquiring either tinea infection or scabies or impetigo by any of the affected children was the low socioeconomic conditions of their parents. The high prevalence of eczema in the high social classes could be attributed to the early exposure of the children to artificial milk in infancy. It is hoped that aggressive health educational programmes and improvement of the socioeconomic status of the people will bring about a decline in the prevalence of childhood skin diseases in Nigeria.
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