Relationship of Atopic Dermatitis Severity with Out-of-Pocket Costs, Perceived Financial Burden, and Work Productivity Among Adult Patients in a Tertiary Hospital in the Philippines: A Cross-Sectional Study
Alyanna Jean E. Dela Cruz, Danielle Nicolle Dionisio MejiaAbstract
Context:
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with significant financial costs and impaired productivity. While its impact has been explored globally, local data on the relationship between AD severity, patient-reported costs, and productivity impairment remain limited.
Aims:
The study aimed to determine the relationship between AD severity and patient-reported out-of-pocket (OOP) costs, perceived financial burden, and productivity impairment among adult patients.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult patients with AD in an outpatient setting. Adults aged 19–59 years were enrolled. Disease severity was assessed using the SCORing AD (SCORAD) Index. Patient-reported OOP costs, productivity impairment, and perceived financial burden were evaluated using a Filipino OOP Costs Questionnaire and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment–General Health Questionnaire. Data were summarized using the descriptive statistics. Differences across severity groups were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis
Results:
Sixty-seven participants were included, the majority of whom had moderate AD. Treatment costs significantly correlated with disease severity (
Conclusions:
Greater AD severity is associated with higher OOP costs, increased perceived financial burden, and reduced work productivity, particularly among patients with moderate-to-severe disease.