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A low level of health literacy is a predictor of corticophobia in atopic dermatitis | Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia

A low level of health literacy is a predictor of corticophobia in atopic dermatitis | Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia

Source : https://www.anaisdedermatologia.org.br/en-a-low-level-health-literacy-avance-S0365059622001969

Introduction Methods Patients and setting Questionnaires Statistical analysis Ethics Results Discussion Conclusion Financial support Authors' contributions Conflict of interest Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disorder with a significant impact on the quality of life. Globally, its prevalence is increasing, affecting up to 20% of children and 10% of adults.


Conclusion: HL had an inverse correlation with corticophobia. Lower HL was shown to be a predictor of higher corticophobia. The promotion of health literacy is essential for the correct use of TCS and good control of AD.

  • September 07, 2022
    Key Points
    • Source: Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia
    • Conclusion: “The degree of corticophobia is similar to the values reported in other studies. HL [health literacy] had an inverse correlation with corticophobia. Lower HL was shown to be a predictor of higher corticophobia. The promotion of health literacy is essential for the correct use of TCS [topical corticosteroid] and good control of AD [atopic dermatitis].”
    • In the current prospective study, Portuguese researchers included 31 patients with AD (average age: 20; 57.4% women) and tested their fear of TCS. In younger patients, parents were also asked surveyed about this finding via TOPICOP, which is the only validated score to analyze TCS phobia.
    • The authors wrote, “Corticophobia may impair an adequate treatment regimen, leading to an uncontrolled disease with a negative impact on the quality of life. The right amount of TCS to use and frequency of applications are some of the concerns that should be addressed with these The fear of TCS side effects may be a major concern in AD patients and their caregivers and is frequently implicated in TCS resistance.”
    • The investigators recommend the promotion of health literacy in the general population and note that there are various non-expert sources of misinformation. They noted that TCS is not only prevalent in patients (and parents) but also healthcare providers. This means that better education on the topic is required.
    • These findings are an example of poor health literacy, with health education being a public-health priority.