Prevalence of contact allergy by sex, race and age

Among 1873 patch tested patients, the prevalence of contact allergy was 47.1% (421/894) in females and 51.2% (501/979) in males (N.S.). It was 46.5% (593/1274) in Chinese, 52.8% (151/286) in Malays, and 48.3% (48.3%) in Indians, there was no significant difference among these 3 races in Singapore. Prevalence among foreigners in Singapore was high (82.3% (65/79)) compared to the 3 major races. This may be due to a higher % of foreigners engaged as construction workers who are considered to run a greater risk of contact allergy. The prevalence was significantly higher in those above 40, (60.9% (290/476)) compared to those under 40 (45.2% (632/1397)).