Prevalence of dermatoses among jenukuruba tribal children

Abstract

Introduction: Dermatoses are common among schoolgoing children, more so in a tribal area and cause significant morbidity. Objective: The present study was conducted to study the point prevalence and pattern of dermatoses in Jenukuruba tribal children in Mysore district. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 4207 Jenukuruba tribal children in Mysore district. Diagnosis of various dermatoses was made on the basis of detailed clinical examination. Results: The point prevalence of dermatoses was 71.5%. Majority had single skin lesion. Nearly 43% had more than one skin lesion. Among skin infections and infestations, pyoderma (33.4%) and scabies (19.8%) were most prevalent. Among the noninfective conditions, xerosis (71.5%), pityriasis alba (16.7%), acne (8.6%), and hyperpigmentation (54.5%) were most prevalent. Conclusions: The point prevalence of dermatoses in tribal schoolchildren in Mysore district is very high. Health education of children and caregivers regarding the signs and symptoms of dermatoses is warranted for early detection, timely intervention, and prevention.

Keywords

• dermatoses
• prevalence
• school
• tribal area