Sociodemographic determinants of dermatological diseases among paediatric patients attending clinics at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2455-4529.IntJResDermatol20253390Keywords:
Atopic dermatitis, Fungal infections, Inflammatory dermatoses, Nigeria, Pediatric dermatology, Skin diseases, Socio-demographic factorsAbstract
Background: Dermatological diseases are common among children in tropical regions, affecting physical, emotional, and social well-being. In Nigeria, limited attention is given to their socio-demographic determinants.
This study aimed to evaluate the influence of socio-demographic factors on dermatological diseases among pediatric patients at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia.
Methods: A retrospective review was conducted from January 2020 to December 2022. All 491 pediatric patients aged 0-17 years with dermatological diagnoses and complete socio-demographic data were included. Data were obtained from clinic registers and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Chi-square tests were applied to assess associations, with p<0.05 considered significant.
Results: Inflammatory skin disorders (37.9%), fungal infections (18.9%), and parasitic infections (13.8%) were most prevalent. Atopic dermatitis (18.5%) was the most common diagnosis. Age significantly influenced disease type: atopic dermatitis in infants, tinea capitis in school-age children, and acne in adolescents (p<0.001). Socio-economic status and parental education were also significant (p<0.001), with low-income children more affected by infectious dermatoses, while higher-income households presented more inflammatory conditions. Gender and residence showed no significant associations.
Conclusions: Socio-demographic factors strongly shape pediatric skin disease patterns. Targeted interventions and improved dermatological services are needed to reduce inequalities and enhance child health outcomes in the region.
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References
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