Association Between Self‐Reported Socio‐Economic Conditions, Air Pollution Sources and Eczema Symptoms Amongst Teenagers in Soshanguve, Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng Province, South Africa

ABSTRACT Background This study aimed to investigate the association between self‐reported socio‐economic conditions, air pollution and the prevalence of atopic eczema among teenagers in Soshanguve, Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng Province, South Africa. Materials and Methods A cross‐sectional study of 2885 schoolchildren aged 13–14 years from 13 high schools in Soshanguve was conducted. Participants completed a validated, modified ISAAC III questionnaire, and data were analysed using univariate and multiple logistic regression in Stata 18 to identify predictors of eczema. Results Prevalence estimates indicated that 26.8% of participants self‐reported current eczema symptoms (ES), whereas 23.3% self‐reported eczema ever (EE). Females were more likely to report current ES (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.07) and EE (AOR 1.63). Monthly paracetamol (Panadol) use was strongly associated with self‐reported current ES and EE (AOR 2.37). Environmental and household factors increased risk: Frequent truck traffic near homes elevated the self‐reported current ES (AOR 1.26) and EE (AOR 1.24); cat ownership increased self‐reported current ES (AOR 1.49); dog ownership increased self‐reported EE (AOR 1.39); and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) at home for 16–20 days per month raised the likelihood of self‐reported EE (AOR 1.96; p < 0.05). Conclusion We observed that self‐reported pet ownership, frequent paracetamol use, exposure to ETS and nearby truck traffic were associated with increased odds of eczema among teenagers in Soshanguve.