A Cross-Sectional Study on the Prevalence of Self-Reported Atopic Eczema Associated with Asthma Amongst the Saudi Population

Objective Atopic eczema (AE) and asthma are chronic inflammatory conditions with significant health impacts, sharing common genetic, immunological, and environmental triggers, such as Th2-driven immune responses and elevated immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels. This study explored the prevalence of AE and its association with asthmatic immunological imbalance in the Saudi population, focusing on contributing factors like environmental exposures and genetic predispositions. Material and Methods A cross-sectional design was employed, involving n=579 participants from diverse regions of Saudi Arabia. Data was collected through a structured bilingual questionnaire covering demographics, medical history, symptom severity, treatment strategies, and environmental exposures. Statistical analyses were conducted to identify predictors and associations, including chi-square tests and logistic regression. Results The prevalence of AE and asthma was n=365 (63%), with family history emerging as the strongest predictor ( p = 0.045). Urban residency, exposure to allergens, and smoking significantly contributed to symptom severity. Despite n=365 (63%) of participants receiving treatment, n=231 (40%) experienced daily symptoms, highlighting the chronic and debilitating nature of these conditions. Environmental factors such as dust, pollen, and smoking were identified as major triggers, exacerbating symptom severity and quality-of-life impacts. Conclusion This study reveals a high burden of AE and asthma in the Saudi population, driven by genetic predispositions and environmental exposures. Findings emphasize the need for family-based screening, public health strategies (e.g., anti-smoking campaigns, environmental regulations), reduced environmental triggers, and improved access to advanced treatment modalities. The study provides a valuable foundation for future research and targeted healthcare interventions to mitigate the burden of atopic diseases in Saudi Arabia.