Prevalence of Skin Diseases among Primary School Children

Authors

  • Khalis Bilal M. Ali College of Nursing, Hawler Medical University.
  • Omer Qadir Surchi Dean of College of Dentistry, Hawler Medical University.
  • Tariq S. Al-Hadithi Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15218/zjms.2010.016

Keywords:

Prevalence, Skin diseases, Primary school children, Erbil

Abstract

Background and objective: Skin diseases constitute serious public health problems throught the world, especially in children. The aim of the study was to determine the preva-lence of skin diseases in primary school children in Erbil city, and its relation to various socio-demographic factors.

Methods: A total of 6915 pupils aged 6-15 years were randomly selected from 32 primary schools using multistage random sampling technique. Data regarding general socio-demographic variables were collected from each student in a specially designed question-naire. Children were clinically examined and the dermatological findings were recorded.

Results: The overall prevalence of skin diseases was 40.6%, Infectious dermatoses have the highest prevalence rate (15.27%), followed by eczematous skin diseases (13.13%). The overall prevalence of skin diseases and infectious dermatoses were significantly higher among females, younger age groups and those of low socio-economic status, while eczematous skin diseases were significantly higher among males.

Conclusions: Skin conditions are common among school children, which may reflect pre-vailing low socio-economic conditions. Relevant health education programs and preventive measures should be implemented.

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Published

2010-08-01

How to Cite

M. Ali, K. B., Surchi, O. Q., & Al-Hadithi, T. S. (2010). Prevalence of Skin Diseases among Primary School Children. Zanco Journal of Medical Sciences (Zanco J Med Sci), 14(2), 5–12. https://doi.org/10.15218/zjms.2010.016

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Original Articles