The Long-Term Impact of Early-Onset Atopic Dermatitis
A recent study led by professor Jonathan Silverberg involving over 30,000 participants has highlighted the significant psychosocial burden faced by adults with early-onset atopic dermatitis (AD). Learn more and continue reading.
The “Scars of Life” project, which included data from 30,801 adults across 27 countries, aimed to understand how the age of onset affects the severity of AD symptoms and their impact on daily and occupational life. A total of 10,258 participants with current AE were recruited in 27 countries between February and May 2024. Within this population, 2,875 individuals were identified as having childhood-onset atopic eczema, while 7,883 individuals had adult-onset atopic eczema.1
- 31.6% of respondents indicated that individuals avoided shaking hands with them due to visible signs of their AD
- 28.5% of participants indicated that they had been rejected by their partner because of their atopic eczema
- 39.2% admitted to feeling reluctance to present themselves or trying to hide their condition
- 28.1% of those surveyed reported having already felt a sense of shame from their family or relatives.°
Key Findings
- Higher Social and Emotional Distress: Among 10,258 individuals with current AD, those whose condition began in childhood reported significantly higher levels of social and emotional distress compared to those with adult-onset AD.
- Increased Stigmatization: Childhood-onset AD patients had higher scores on the Patient Unique Stigmatization Holistic tool in dermatology (PUSH-D), indicating a greater sense of stigmatization (23.0±20.1 vs 18.1±17.6; P<0.0001).
- Workplace Discrimination: 37.3% of childhood-onset AD sufferers reported facing discrimination at work, compared to 32.7% of those with adult-onset AD.
- Personal Relationships: The stigma associated with AD also affected personal relationships, with many avoiding photos and reducing social contact.
Implications
The study, presented by Prof. Jonathan Silverberg underscores the necessity of addressing not only the physical but also the social and emotional aspects of AD, especially for those affected from childhood. The chronic nature of AD contributes significantly to the overall disease burden, beyond just the severity of symptoms.
Conclusion
The “Scars of Life” project highlights the importance of early and adequate long-term management of AD to mitigate its extensive psychosocial impacts. Healthcare professionals should be aware of these findings to better support patients in managing both the physical and emotional challenges of AD.
Referenties
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Silverberg JI et al. Impact of atopic dermatitis in adults depends on its age of onset: Results of the “Scars of Life” project. Abstract 7861. EADV Congress 2024, 25-38 September, 2024.
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