Published 2025-11-10
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Abstract
Objective: The main objectives of the study are to determine the frequency and clinical characteristics of contact dermatitis in the Saudi population, as well as to identify common irritants and allergens associated with the condition. The study will also assess current approaches to treatment and management.
Methods: In order to estimate the prevalence of contact dermatitis, identify risk factors that are linked to it, and assess current treatment methods at a particular moment in time, this research will use a descriptive cross-sectional survey methodology. This architecture makes it possible to get quantitative data from a wide range of Saudi citizens.
Results: The study included 362 participants. The study included 362 participants. The most frequent age among them was 18-29 years and 30-39 years (n=130, 35.9%), followed by 40-49 years (n=71, 19.6%), then 50-59 years (n=23, 6.4%). The most frequent gender among study participants was female (n=235, 64.9%), followed by male (n=127, 35.1%). The most frequent nationality is Saudi (n=306, 84.5%) and non-Saudi (n=56, 15.5%). The most frequent region among study participants was Western (n=177, 48.9 %), followed by Southern (n=77, 21.3%), then Eastern (n=55, 15.2%), and Central (n=37, 10.2%). Occupation of study participants, with most of them were Teaching (n=97, 26.8%), followed by healthcare (n=66, 18.2%), and then Housewife (n=62, 17.1%), and Student (n=58, 16%). Participants who were diagnosed with contact dermatitis by a doctor. Most of the participants answered no (n=239, 66%), followed by yes (n=123, 34%). Participants were asked, How often do you experience flare-ups? Most of the participants answered Occasionally (n=40, 32.5%), followed by Rarely and Frequently (n=32, 26%), then Constantly (n=19, 15.4%). Participants were asked Have you ever undergone patch testing to identify allergens. The majority responded No (n = 59, 48%), followed by Yes (n =45, 36.6%), then Don’t know what it is (n = 19, 15.4%).
Conclusion: The study shows that contact dermatitis diagnosis is significantly related to several sociodemographic factors, as well as awareness behaviors such as knowing the difference between irritant and allergic dermatitis and reading product labels. No significant associations were found with clinical factors such as flare-ups, type of dermatitis, or daily activity limitations.