Atopic Dermatitis in Latin America: A Roadmap to Address Data Collection, Knowledge Gaps, and Challenges

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a widespread, complex disease causing substantial illness and healthcare costs in Latin America (LA).
• Existing data on AD in LA are limited due to a lack of disease registries and inconsistent research methods.
• Region-specific genetic, immunological, and environmental factors further complicate data collection and analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address critical knowledge gaps in atopic dermatitis (AD) research within Latin America.
• To achieve expert consensus on key areas requiring updated information and further investigation.
• To inform future research directions and public health strategies for AD in the region.

Main Methods:

• A panel of Latin American (LA) experts in atopic dermatitis (AD) convened to discuss and answer predefined questions.
• Expert narratives underwent multiple rounds of discussion and editing to reach a consensus.
• Key knowledge gaps were identified and updated based on current understanding and regional specificities.

Main Results:

• Identified knowledge gaps include updated prevalence data, adult-disease epidemiology, and local phenotypes/endotypes of AD.
• Prevalence of severe AD, specialist distribution, and public health policy related to AD were highlighted as areas needing more data.
• Limited research funding and regional heterogeneity involving race, ethnicity, and environment were cited as primary reasons for these gaps.

Conclusions:

• Urgent need to address data scarcity in atopic dermatitis (AD) research across Latin America (LA).
• Further investigation into the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and demographic factors is crucial.
• Enhanced awareness, education, and informed decision-making are recommended to improve AD management and policy in LA.