Emotional Impact of Atopic Eczema

International Study of Life With Atopic Eczema (ISOLATE) Shows Patients and Caregivers Are Often Overwhelmed By Eczema Flare-Ups and Treatment OptionsWednesday February 23, 10:32 am ET

Study finds strong emotional impact of atopic dermatitis/eczema

NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the results of a new multinational survey called the International Study of Life with Atopic Eczema (ISOLATE) a majority of eczema sufferers and caregivers (51% of patients and 63% of caregivers) live in a state of constant concern over when they might experience their next disease flare-up. The study also revealed that up to 75 percent of eczema patients and caregivers lack confidence in the ability to effectively manage their disease when it does flare up. These results were presented this week at the 63rd annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) by Dr. Seth Orlow of New York University.
ISOLATE is the largest and most comprehensive study of its kind, including 2,000 participants from eight countries (France, Germany, Spain, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, United Kingdom and United States). The data presented at the AAD meeting are from a sub-analysis of approximately 400 patients and caretakers of patients from the United States. The National Eczema Association for Science and Education (NEASE) was one of the leading groups involved in the development and implementation of this study, along with other patient-focused organizations around the world.
"Many people can't realize the profound impact eczema can have on the lives of patients and, in the case of children, their caregivers, minimizing it as just a minor nuisance. This survey demonstrates the seriousness of the condition and the tremendous need for effective treatment options that patients can use safely to control their disease long term. This study also validates the quality of life issues to qualify for health insurance coverage for treatment. It shows that atopic dermatitis/eczema is not a minor irritation but a serious physical and emotional burden to patients and their caregivers," said Vicki Kalabokes, Chief Executive Officer of NEASE.
The majority of patients (80%) and caregivers (73%) surveyed felt that effective eczema control would represent the single most important improvement to their quality of life. Yet, only 24% of patients and 27% of caregivers said they feel totally confident that they can manage the condition.
Further, the majority of patients (64%) and those caring for children (78%) with moderate or severe eczema said they would want to use a non-steroidal treatment that could either prevent a flare-up occurring or reduce its severity. They also reported that while their physicians had provided information about the condition, they had not addressed with them the emotional impact of the disease, or that support groups were available to help.