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Published on: September 26, 2019
Epidemiology of atopic dermatitis in primary schoolchildren in Turkey
Seniz Ergin1, Aysun Ozşahin, Berna Sanli Erdoğan
1Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey. sergin@pau.edu.tr
Insights
The prevalence of atopic dermatitis among primary schoolchildren in Denizli, Turkey, was found to be 4.9%. This study identified key factors influencing childhood eczema, crucial for understanding and managing the condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Dermatology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition in children.
- Understanding its prevalence and risk factors is essential for effective public health strategies.
- Geographical variations in atopic dermatitis prevalence suggest environmental influences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of atopic dermatitis in primary schoolchildren in Denizli, Turkey.
- To identify potential risk factors within the home environment associated with childhood eczema.
- To contribute to the understanding of global disparities in atopic dermatitis incidence.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 1,644 primary schoolchildren aged 7-15 years in Denizli, Turkey.
- Utilized a self-administered questionnaire for parents, incorporating the United Kingdom Working Party diagnostic criteria.
- Evaluated factors including passive smoking, home heating systems, and household size.
Main Results:
- The overall prevalence of atopic dermatitis was determined to be 4.9%.
- Passive smoking, specific heating systems, and the number of people in the household showed no statistically significant association with atopic dermatitis.
- Significant differences in prevalence between developed and developing countries highlight the need for further research.
Conclusions:
- The study establishes a baseline prevalence of atopic dermatitis in the studied population.
- Key environmental risk factors commonly suspected were not found to be significant in this cohort.
- Further research into influential factors is necessary to inform interventions and reduce the burden of childhood eczema.
Abstract:
The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of atopic dermatitis in primary schoolchildren in Denizli, Turkey, and to determine the possible risk factors for atopic dermatitis in home environment. A self-administered questionnaire was handled to the parents of 2,100 children aged 7 to 15 years, from three randomized primary schools and 1,644 (78.9%) completed and returned the questionnaire. The questionnaire included the United Kingdom Working Party diagnostic criteria and asked about conditions that could affect the course of atopic dermatitis. The prevalence of atopic dermatitis and coexisting factors that may affect the course of the disease were evaluated in 1,644 children (825 girls and 819 boys). The prevalence of atopic dermatitis was detected as 4.9%. Passive smoking, heating systems either in the house or in the child's bedroom, and the number of people living in the house had no significant effect (p > 0.005). The difference in prevalence of atopic dermatitis between developed and developing countries is striking. The determination of the factors that have an influence in this issue will probably enable us to change the course and frequency of atopic dermatitis.
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