Risk factors of eczema among pediatric groups in Qassim region, Saudi Arabia

Background: Eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, includes various forms such as atopic dermatitis (AD), allergic, and irritant contact dermatitis. It affects 15%–30% of children and 2%–10% of adults globally, causing significant morbidity and economic burden. Studies from different regions highlight varying prevalence rates and risk factors, such as family history and environmental exposures. Aims: The aim of the study was to evaluate the influencing risk factors of eczema among the children living in Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. Settings and Design: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the dermatology and pediatric allergy clinics at the Maternity and Children’s Hospital in Buraidah, Saudi Arabia. Methods: Male and female patients <14 years old were eligible to participate and interview-based method was used for the data collection. Statistical Analysis Used: All collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Results: A significantly high proportion of children had dry skin who had a family history of eczema ( P = 0.023). In addition, the appearance of an itchy rash during the past 6 months increased significantly among those children who had other allergies ( P = 0.006). Conclusions: It can be concluded that the family history of eczema and patients having other allergies were the potential risk factors. It was also found that late presentation to the hospital perhaps increases the severity of the disease.