Public Awareness, Prevalence, and Risk Factors of Diaper Dermatitis Among Infants in Al-Qunfudhah Governorate, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Diaper dermatitis (DD) was considered one of the most common pediatric dermatological complaints. The presentation of DD can be summarized by symptoms such as papules; erythematous rash; erosions around the thighs, buttocks, or scrotum; suprapubic region areas of skin creases; and scaling. The initial treatment of DD is to keep the diaper area skin as dry as possible. Many mild topical steroids and barrier creams are available to protect against infant skin inflammation. Methods: The sample size was calculated using the Fisher sample method. This study was conducted in Al-Qunfudhah governorate, Saudi Arabia through a questionnaire. The sample size selected was suitable for defining the DD prevalence and causative factor in 0-24-month-old children and those older than 24 months. Results: The majority of participants were female parents 343 (80.33%) at university level 305 (71.43%), their children mostly female 179 (51.88%) aged than 24 months 193 (45.20%). Most of participants that have a child with DD change diaper three times a day 276 (64.64%), and use a cleaning agent water and wet wipes 157 (45.51%). Generally, we founded that prevalence of DD was 80.80% (345/427). When comparing gender groups, females had a higher prevalence (51.88%) compared to males (48.12%) (p=0.7724). Conclusion: Using baby powder and changing diapers fewer than three times per night increased the risk of DD in the study population. As a result, future DD prevention strategies for this age group should emphasize frequent diaper changing (especially at night), as well as the use of diaper cream that improves the skin barrier.