Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess parents’ concerns and awareness about using topical corticosteroids for their children with eczema in the Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: In the Makkah region, a cross-sectional study was carried out using a convenient sample of 221 parents. To gather the research data, a structured online questionnaire that required consent and ensured data confidentiality was employed.
Results Mothers represented 71% (n = 157) of the sample. The main source of information about topical corticosteroids was dermatologists (71%, n = 157). Half of the sample used topical corticosteroids for children for 3 months or more. The most common indication for topical corticosteroids was eczema (69.2%, n = 153). About 81% (n = 178) had concerns about their application to specific skin, like the eyelid. Widowed was associated with a significantly lower overall steroid phobia score (95% CI = -9.23 to -1.79, p = 0.004). Highly educated participants exhibited a significantly higher overall steroid phobia score (95% CI = 1.05-7.78, p = 0.011). Mothers demonstrated a significantly higher behavior score (95% CI = 0.36-1.55, p = 0.002).
Conclusion: The study identified average levels of parental fears and knowledge regarding topical corticosteroid treatment in pediatric patients in the Makkah region. Corticosteroid fear was more prevalent among mothers and educated parents. Additional study is needed to better understand and treat corticosteroid phobia in various groups and contexts.

Key words: Atopic dermatitis, attitude, awareness, corticosteroids, eczema, phobia