Impact of socioeconomic factors on pediatric atopic dermatitis population.

Abstract

<h4>Background</h4>Atopic dermatitis (AD), or eczema, is a chronic, pruritic inflammatory skin disease affecting children and adults. Socioeconomic status (SES) plays a significant role in developing AD. However, mixed evidence from a previous study by Bajwa <i>et al</i> makes it difficult to determine the directionality of the association. There is a literature gap in understanding the causal association between AD and socioeconomic factors.<h4>Aim</h4>To evaluate the impact of disparities in SES on pediatric AD populations.<h4>Methods</h4>Based on the eligibility criteria, the literature review identified eight articles since July 2021, and a descriptive analysis was conducted using an Excel spreadsheet on key components collected from the identified studies.<h4>Results</h4>Eight observational studies assessed SES in pediatric AD. Five observational studies showed mixed associations between AD and SES. Sub-analysis revealed that urban areas had a higher prevalence of AD, and four studies identified a positive association between parental education and AD in the pediatric population. Socioeconomic variables, such as residential areas and household income, significantly influence disease outcomes.<h4>Conclusion</h4>There is mixed association between pediatric AD and SES, with AD positively associated with parental education. There is critical need to evaluate global impact of SES variables on pediatric AD.