Prevalence of skin disorders and associated socio-economic factors among primary school children in the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the prevalent skin disorders among primary school children, awareness of its risk factors and to assess the socio-demographic determinants associated with their development.

METHODS

The cross-sectional observational study was conducted in September-December 2016 comprising children from six public and private schools in Wadi Al Dawaser region of Eastern Saudi Arabia. A self-generated self-administered questionnaire was sent through the children to be filled up by their parents. Details on sociodemographic and skin dermatoses conditions were collected. Data were analyzed using SPSS 16..

RESULTS

Of the 710 students approached, 499(70.2%) responded. Of them, 151(30.2%) were boys and 348(69.7%) were girls. The overall mean age was 10.3}1.4 years (range: 3-15 years). The overall prevalence of skin disorders was 118(23.6%). Allergic dermatoses 11(11.3%) and eczema 4(11.8%) were the commonest conditions. Lichen planus 6(5%), acne 9(7.6%), allergic rashes 4(3.3%), and psoriasis 3(2.5%) were also recorded. Sociodemographic and hygiene factors were significantly associated with the disease (p<0.05 each).

CONCLUSIONS

A high prevalence of skin disorders was encountered among primary school children in the region studied.