Population-based estimates on the prevalence of atopic dermatitis in adults vary widely. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of atopic dermatitis in the population of the United States, the distribution of disease severity, and its impact on health-related quality of life. Among 1,278 participating adults, the prevalence (95% confidence interval) of atopic dermatitis was 7.3% (5.9e8.8). Overall, 60.1% (56.1e64.1) of participants were classified as having mild, 28.9% (25.3e32.7) as having moderate, and 11% as having severe (8.6e13.7) disease. Patients with atopic dermatitis and those with more severe disease had higher scores in the dermatology life quality index (mean [standard deviation] for AD patients ¼ 4.71 [6.44] vs. control individuals ¼ 0.97 [2.12]) (P < 0.001) and the hospital anxiety (mean [standard deviation] for AD patients ¼ 7.03 [4.80] vs. control individuals ¼ 4.73 [4.8]) and depression (mean, [standard deviation] for AD patients ¼ 5.83 [4.54] vs. control individuals ¼ 3.62 [3.61]) scales, indicating a worse impact on quality of life and an increased likelihood of anxiety or depression. Based on our prevalence estimates, 16.5 million adults would have a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis, with 6.6 million meeting criteria for moderate to severe disease. Our study confirms the high prevalence and disease burden of atopic dermatitis in this population.
Background
In response to racial inequity in asthma, asthma-related research among diverse patients is vital. However, people from historically marginalized groups are underrepresented in clinical and patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR). The “Black People Like Me” (BPLM) virtual conference series was developed to: (1) engage Black patients with asthma and their caregivers in education and discussions about asthma, and (2) encourage involvement in PCOR. Education about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination was also incorporated.
Methods
The Project Advisory Group consisting of Black patients, clergy, physicians, and a program evaluator met monthly to develop BPLM. The program consisted of free one-hour virtual sessions held monthly for 6 months. BPLM was promoted through the Allergy & Asthma Network website, emails, social media, and personal contacts with a recruitment goal of ≥ 100 Black patients with asthma or caregivers. Program evaluations, interactive polling questions during each session, and participant pre- and post-session tests were conducted.
Results
Sessions averaged 658 participants including Black patients, family members, caregivers, Black clergy, health care providers, and other concerned community. Overall, 77% of participants strongly agreed with satisfaction with the sessions. Pre- and post-tests demonstrated that participants exhibited growth in knowledge regarding asthma risk, PCOR, and PCOR research opportunities for patients, exhibited preexisting and sustained knowledge regarding COVID-19 vaccination and side effects, and demonstrated an increased sense of empowerment during healthcare visits.
Conclusions
BPLM demonstrated that a virtual platform can successfully engage Black communities. Incorporating clergy and religious organizations was critical in developing the trust of the Black community towards BPLM.
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