Publication:

Sociodemographic determinants of dermatological diseases among paediatric patients attending clinics at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria

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.