Prevalence and risk factors of diaper dermatitis among newborn babies to two years of age in Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: Diaper dermatitis is the most common dermatological condition which affects the pediatric age group. A variety of factors contribute to the pathophysiology. Diaper dermatitis presents as an erythematous rash, papules, scaling, and erosions around the thighs, scrotum, suprapubic area, and buttocks, characteristically where skin creases. The primary treatment is to keep the skin around the diaper area as dry as possible by frequent diaper changes together with careful selection of the diaper type. Some creams (barrier creams) and mild topical corticosteroid treatments are also available to protect the infant’s thin skin and to reduce any inflammation. Methods: This was a cross sectional study of 389 parents using structural questionnaires. The study was conducted in the Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia from January to July 2022. We used bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to analyze our data and test the association between the prevalence of diaper dermatitis and its possible risk factors. Results: The prevalence of diaper dermatitis was 39.33% (153/389). The highest prevalence was among children who were 19-24 months old (65%). When comparing gender groups, females had a higher prevalence (44.4%) compared to males (34.7%) (p=0.005). Preterm babies had a slightly lower prevalence than term babies. Conclusion: Multiple factors are involved in diaper dermatitis which most commonly affect infants and toddlers. The highest prevalence was among children who were 19-24 months old and there was more prevalence among females. Keywords: Diaper dermatitis, Prevalence, Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia