12-month prevalence of atopic dermatitis in resource-rich countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

There is a lack of robust prevalence estimates of atopic dermatitis (AD) globally and trends over time due to wide variation of populations and age groups studied, different study methodologies and case definitions used. We sought to characterize 12-month AD prevalence across the life span and change over time in resource-rich countries focusing on population-based studies and using a standardized AD case definition. This systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Medline (Ovid), Embase, WOS core collection, Cinahl, and Popline were searched for studies published since inception through August 15, 2016. Studies were synthesized using random effects meta-analysis. Sources of heterogeneity were investigated using subgroup analyses and meta-regression. From 12,530 records identified, 45 studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis with random effects revealed the 12-month period prevalence of 9.2% (95% confidence interval 8.4-10.1%). The prevalence was significantly higher among 0-5-year-old children (16.2%; 95% confidence interval 14.2-18.7%) than in older age groups. Studies using a random sampling strategy yielded lower prevalence estimates than studies relying on other sampling methods. There was no clear time trend in AD prevalence over the period of 1992-2013.

Automated summary

The lack of consistent prevalence estimates of atopic dermatitis (AD) globally has been attributed to variations in populations, age groups, methodologies, and case definitions used in previous studies. This systematic review aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of 12-month AD prevalence in resource-rich countries using population-based studies and standardized case definitions. The meta-analysis revealed a 12-month prevalence of 9.2%, with significantly higher rates among children aged 0-5 years. Moreover, studies employing random sampling strategies yielded lower prevalence estimates compared to those relying on other sampling methods. No clear time trend in AD prevalence was observed between 1992 and 2013.