Objective: To assess the risk factors associated with scabies in adults in our region.
Methodology: This analytical cross-sectional study was done in the department of Dermatology, Niazi Welfare Foundation Teaching Hospital, Sargodha from 1st June 2023 to 31st May 2024. All the out-patients, from 18-60 years of age, regardless of their gender and race, who presented with history of severe itch which worsen at night were included in the study after confirmation of diagnosis on microscopy. The sample size of 384 was selected via purposive non-probability technique. The patients with other skin lesions or those with serious debilitating diseases like uncontrolled diabetes mellitus will be excluded from the study. The SPSS 23 was used to enter and analyze the data.
Results: Scabies was dominantly seen among male participants (58.59%). The leading risk factors included residences in rural areas (41.66%), illiteracy (46.88%), outdoor blue-collar jobs (80% male participants), overcrowding (69.1%) and the habits of sharing clothing and bed linens (81.51%). Pruritus was the frequent presenting symptom (93.75%) and an upsurge (60.10%) was noted in the cases during winter season.
Conclusion: Scabies is a contagious and endemic illness, strongly associated with substandard living conditions. Public education is mandatory for early identification of risk factors and prevention of disease.
Key words: Pruritus, rural, scabies, rural, urban slums.
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