Global epidemiology and disparities in atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects children and adults worldwide. Advancements have been made towards unravelling the pathogenesis of AD, identifying various triggers, linking the environment and psychosocial factors with disease and the development of therapeutic targets to improve disease control. This article describes the global epidemiology of AD and the disparities that exist in various populations and regions across the globe. AD prevalence and burden varies widely both within and between countries inhabited by the same ethnic groups, which suggests strong environmental influences in disease expression, with socioeconomic status and affluence considered to be the main driving factors. Inequities in access to healthcare, and the quality of healthcare provided, among racial and ethnic minority groups are well documented. Disparities in access to various topical and systemic therapies are affected by barriers to registration and approval, cost, manufacturing, supply and approval by medical insurance companies and governments. Identifying the factors driving the inequities in access to healthcare is central to achieving better patient care.