The prevalence of atopic dermatitis in adolescents living in Denizli, Turkey (ISAAC Phase III): Is a parent working in textile industry a risk factor?

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate trends in the prevalence of symptoms and risk factors of atopic eczema in 13-14 years old school children in Denizli. Material and Methods: This survey was first conducted in 2002 and repeated in 2008 using the same ISAAC questionnaire in the same age group. Possible risk factors were also asked. Results: A total of 3004 children (response rate, 93.8%) in 2002 and 4078 children (response rate, 75%) in 2008 were included into the studies. Doctor diagnosed eczema ever increased from 2.1% to 3% (POR =0.7, 95% CI = 0.52-0.95, p= 0.015). The prevalence of itch rash ever and itch rash in last 12 month decreased respectively from 20.8% to 14.7% (POR =1.52, 95% CI =1.39-1.72, p<0.001) and from 15.4% to 9.5% (POR=1.72, 95% CI=1.49-1.99, p<0.001). The prevalence of itch rash with typical distribution, itch rash cleared completely in last 12 month and kept awake at night by this itchy rash in last 12 month were significantly decreased in 2008. Atopic family history, tumble drying at home, working father or mother in textile industry were found as significant risk factors for atopic eczema in 2008. Conclusion: Although the prevalence of doctor diagnosed atopic eczema in 13-14 years age group was found to be increasing in Denizli, this study showed a decrease in the prevalence of typical clinical symptoms and signs of atopic eczema. Atopic family history, tumble drying at home, a working parent in textile industry were important risk factors for doctor diagnosed atopic eczema in 2008.