FS08.5 Does childhood atopic dermatitis influence the future working life?

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the risk of adult hand eczema and possible influence on later working life in persons with childhood atopic dermatitis.Method: After reviewing medical records from the school healthcare in Stockholm regarding individuals born 1960–69, 600 individuals where signs of atopic dermatitis were noted (“cases”) and 600 matched controls without eczema or allergic disease (“controls”) were identified. 405 cases and 378 controls answered a questionnaire regarding past and present skin disease, choice of job, exposure at work and possible change of job due to eczema.Results: Hand eczema was more than 3 times more common among cases, 42%, compared to controls, 13%(p < 0.001). Hand eczema during the past 12 months was reported by 24% of the cases and 9% of the controls (p < 0.001). The proportion of individuals working in jobs with high‐risk for hand eczema was equal between the groups, as well as exposure to water, detergents, chemicals and hand washing. Among the cases 9% reported change of job due to eczema compared to 2% of controls (p < 0.001) and sick leave 10% compared to 2%(p < 0.001).Conclusions: Childhood atopic dermatitis is a risk factor for hand eczema. As the proportion of individuals in jobs with high‐risk for hand eczema and the exposure was the same in cases and controls measures preventive measures are important to reduce consequences like sick leave and change of job.