Impact of atopic dermatitis on quality of life among adults population
Sarah Alamer, Turki Alkahtani, Lujain Alamer, Gaafer Aboraida, Sami Billal
A
BSTRACT
Introduction:
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disease affecting 2.1–4.9% of adults worldwide. It commonly coexists with asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies, and is influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
Objective:
To evaluate the impact of atopic dermatitis on quality of life among adults.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults (≥18 years) with atopic dermatitis attending dermatology clinics between July and September 2025. Participants with active skin infections were excluded.
Results:
Among 600 participants, misconceptions were common: (24.9%) believed treatment could cure AD, and 24% viewed topical corticosteroids as unsafe. Frequent comorbidities included asthma (57%), allergic rhinitis (55%), and parental history (59.5%). Psychosocial effects were notable, with over half reporting impaired daily activities and relationships.
Limitations:
The study was conducted in a single geographical setting and included patients attending dermatology clinics, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to the broader population. A relatively short data collection period may have limited the ability to detect less frequent associations or seasonal variations in disease severity.
Conclusion:
Substantial knowledge gaps and psychosocial impact emphasize the need for enhanced patient education, improved patient–physician communication, and comprehensive management strategies to optimize outcomes and quality of life in adults with atopic dermatitis.