RIYADH, 5 April 2004 — The rising levels of pollution in the Kingdom’s mushrooming cities are among reasons for the increasing incidence of skin diseases in the Kingdom, a new study suggests.
The incidence of childhood eczema has also risen sharply in the Middle East — as much as 20 percent in children between the age of six and 18 years.
The study was conducted by the National Allergy Group supported by a grant from the King Abdul Aziz City for Science and Technology.
“Studies indicate that eczema and allergic respiratory disorders have become more prevalent among children in densely populated urban areas, and this problem is exacerbated by a higher level of pollution in our environment. We have witnessed a definite rise in eczema in recent years and it is important that parents are made aware of this condition,” said Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Frayh, a professor of pediatrics at the College of Medicine at King Saud University.
The disease can have a serious impact on children’s lives causing discomfort and sleepless nights. It is often compounded by the nature of the condition because the itching can cause children to scratch the affected skin areas and leave it extra sensitive to irritants. The study further notes that if neglected, it could develop into bronchial asthma or allergic rhinitis.
