Amoran OE, Runsewe-Abiodun OO, Mautin AO, Amoran IO
Studies from developing countries conducted over a period of years in the past have reported high prevalence of skin disorders among school children, the spectrum of which has been highly variable. Our study aimed at describing the current pattern and determinants of dermatological disorders among urban primary school children in an African population. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in public primary schools in Sagamu local government area of Ogun State. A multi stage sampling technique was employed and data was collected by well trained health workers using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Dermatological diagnosis was made mainly clinically by Physicians. Laboratory investigations were used to confirm difficult diagnoses. A total of 480 primary school children were recruited. The overall point prevalence of any skin disease was 39.6% (190/480) with 86.2% of those infected having one lesion, and 26 (13.8%) with two or more lesions. The prevalence of any skin disorder was 112 (48.1%) in males and 78 (31.6%) in females (X2= 13.632, p = 0.000). Infective dermatoses accounted for 83.7% of all skin disorders, with superficial fungal infections (dermatophytoses and pityriasis versicolor) accounting for 159 (74.1%). Determinants of acquisition of skin infection among school children were Male sex [OR=2.0, CI=1.36-2.94], previous skin infection [OR=2.09, C.I=1.42-3.06] and No of Siblings greater than 4 [OR=1.17, C.I=01.00-1.37] Number of Siblings greater than 4, previous skin infections and gender were significantly associated with skin disorders among the study population. These factors should be considered in screening for skin infection among young school children. Interventions that enhance good personal hygiene and family life education should be encouraged in developing countries in order to reduce the incidence of skin infection.
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