Prevalence and related factors of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis: a community-based study

Abstract

BACKGROUND/AIM: We aimed to determine the prevalence of psoriasis (PS) and seborrheic dermatitis (SD) (erythematous-squamous diseases) in our region and reveal the frequently encountered associated factors to aid in planning appropriate healthcare. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A community-based study was conducted with 85 sample groups that reflected the population rate and demography of Tokat Province in northern Anatolia. RESULTS: In this community, the prevalence of PS in people older than 20 years of age was 1.2% and the prevalence of SD was 5.2%. SD rates were higher in patients who used tobacco and especially alcohol. SD prevalence was also higher in patients treated for depression and epilepsy. Furthermore, as education levels increased, SD prevalence increased proportionally. CONCLUSION: In general, PS prevalence in this region was higher than in Asia and Africa but lower than in Europe and the United States. Whereas SD prevalence varies between 2% and 12% throughout the world, the average SD prevalence was 5.2% in this study.