Cross-Sectional Survey of School-age Children's Independence Regarding their Own Atopic Dermatitis Care and the Associated Factors in Japan.

OBJECTIVE

Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects many children's QOL; the outpatient topical-therapy treatment means children and families are central in AD management. During school-age years, children's self-care ability becomes increasingly important. To clarify the current state of children's independence in AD care and associated factors.

METHODS

Questionnaires completed by 9-12-year-old children diagnosed with AD̶ and their guardians ̶were statistically analysed as pairs: dependent variable = independence of AD care for children; independent variables = other factors. As a predictive model for school-age children's AD, multiple regression analysis was conducted: dependent variable = independence in AD care.

RESULTS

Analysis of 109 questionnaire pairs revealed that children's independence in AD care correlated significantly with age, AD severity, self-efficacy, and controlled parental attitude in child-rearing. The multiple regression analysis on independence in AD care yielded the following β coefficients: child's age = 0.260, AD severity = -0.153, challenge spirit = 0.123, social support from mothers = 0.166, social support from friends = 0.160, controlled parental attitude in child-rearing = -0.139.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher independence of AD was associated with milder AD symptoms, suggesting that transitioning from parent-led care to child-led care during school years is crucial in effective symptom management. Also vital for fostering independence in AD management are: providing thorough late-childhood guidance, enhancing self-efficacy, and ensuring families avoid excessive interference.