Pattern of skin disorders in a rural community in Southwest Nigeria
Date
2016
Authors
Akinkugbe, A.O
Amira, O.C
Ozoh, O.B
Fasanmade, O
Bandele, E
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Journal ISSN
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Abstract
Background:
Skin disorders are commonly found in the community. In most circumstances, they are easily treatable and preventable. Social and environmental factors play a key role in the epidemiology of skin disease. It is important to assess the dermatological needs of a community as this will help address specific needs. The objective of this study was to identify the skin disorders in a rural community.
Methods:
This was a cross-sectional study carried out in Epeme, a rural community in Lagos state, South west Nigeria. All consenting adults and children with parental consent that presented for the programme were recruited. A self-reported questionnaire was administered by face-to face interview. Socio-demographic data were collected. All those with a skin disease or complaint were further questioned and a clinical examination carried out and findings recorded.
Results:
There were 263 individuals screened; 156 adults and 107 children. Mean age of adults was 38.04 ± 13.04 years and children 9.50 ± 4.67 years. Thirty adults (19.2%) and 27 (25.2%) children had a skin disorder identified clinically. Among the adults the following categories of skin disorders were found: infection 12 (7.6%), disorders of sebaceous glands 5 (3.2%), pigmentary disorders 2 (1.2%) and pruritus 1 (0.6%). Among children, 21 (19.6%) had skin infections, 2 (1.8%) each with eczema and sebaceous gland disorder. Majority of the infections in children were of fungal aetiology.
Conclusion:
Infections still remain the major skin disorders in rural communities in Nigera where dermatology healthcare is not readily availbe and accessible.
Description
Keywords
pattern, skin disorders, skin infection, rural, community, Nigeria
Citation
Akinkugbe AO, Amira OC, Ozoh OB, Fasanmade O, Bandele E. Pattern of skin disorders in a rural community in Southwest Nigeria. The Nigeria Health Journal. 2016;16(2):