Skin care habits of patients with eczema at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital, Kiambu county, Kenya: A retrospective cross-sectional study

Abstract

BackgroundThere is a dearth of data on eczema from the African continent despite the purported increasing burden. ObjectivesTo describe the prevalence of eczema at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital and patient skincare. MethodsA descriptive retrospective cross-sectional research design was used describing the period between 2016 and 2020. Data analysis was done using STATA Version 13. Geo spatial mapping of patient residence was also done. ResultsEczema was the most common skin condition diagnosed with a prevalence of 25.5%. Majority of the patients favoured the use of non-conventional products such as bar soap and milking jelly as routine skincare products. Geospatial mapping demonstrated a higher prevalence of eczema in the urban areas and also revealed access to a specialist as a contributor to health-seeking behaviour. LimitationsSubtypes of eczema were not described and this data only reflects one facility serving an entire county. ConclusionThe prevalence of eczema in KL5H mirrors the increasing global burden of eczema and that Kenya is not exempted from the affliction of eczema. Urban environments have a higher density of eczema in Kiambu. More research is needed to decipher the impact of the preferred non-conventional skin care products on eczema.