Doctors Brace For Rising Eczema Cases

Aug. 13, 2007 - PRLog -- KUALA LUMPUR, August 13: Changing factors in the environment have prompted a rise in atopic eczema, a skin condition which can be distressing and adversely affect the quality of life of the patient.

Atopic eczema is a genetically linked condition where the individual’s immune system reacts excessively to allergens and produces an inflamed, irritated as well as sore skin.

According to dermatologists, the demand for treatment of eczema in Malaysia has soared by 20 per cent since 2001 affecting mostly young children.

Atopic eczema is estimated to affect up to 14 per cent of children who display associated risks of atopy.

Some key factors contributing to the escalating number of cases include rising temperatures and humidity brought on by climate change.

Others include the rise in environmental pollutants, various chemical additives, crude detergents, metals and cosmetics that can be allergic to individuals with eczema-prone skin.

“This trend is also observed in developed countries such as the UK and the USA, where the rise in the incidence of eczema cases has a significant impact on healthcare costs,” said Dr. Steven Chow, a senior consultant dermatologist who is also the president of the Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Association of Malaysia (FPMPAM).

“Unless those at risk such as young children possess a long term management plan, the demand for treatment will continue to rise as they are likely to experience relapses, even as adults.”

Findings by the Universiti Sains Malaysia shows that there is a significantly higher occurrence of eczema is among children aged five to seven compared to children in the 12 to 14 age bracket.

Dr. Chow went on to say that a common trigger for eczema among this age group is due to the use of harsh soaps and detergents which breaks down the natural barrier of sensitive skin.

“Parents need to realize the importance of using mild cleansers in combination with moisturizers on their child’s sensitive skin. This simple but cost-effective adjunctive treatment will help lower the chances of a relapse,” said Dr. Chow.

“By identifying and avoiding the use of unsuitable skin care products, families and individuals can achieve long term control of eczema that can lower their spending on healthcare.”

To raise awareness on proper skin care, FPMPAM has embarked on a patient-education program that includes a component to help individuals detect and avoid eczema triggers for their sensitive skin.

The FPMPAM will host a Continuing Medical Education for doctors to feature a renowned US dermatologist and Harvard Medical School‘s lecturer Dr. Lynn Drake who will spotlight on the special clinical and psycho-social needs of children with eczema.

Children with eczema are likely to face alienation, name calling and bullying by other kids that may contribute to a lack of self-confidence, embarrassment and poor self esteem as they get older.

In UK, eczema was one of the most common diseases treated by doctors, rising by 20 per cent in the number of cases since 2000 to affect one in four children.

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Founded in 1989, the Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Associations Malaysia (FPMPAM) is the national medical body that supports doctors in private practice to provide high quality health care through continuing medical education, ethics advocacy and public outreach programs.

In support of this, the Federation organizes various continuing medical education courses and workshops for specialists, general practitioners, and nurses.