Nation wide epidemiological survey of primary palmar hyperhidrosis in the People's Republic of China.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of primary palmar hyperhidrosis (PPH) among adolescents in PR China.

METHODS

A nationwide survey was performed, including all seven geological areas of Mainland China. Stratified cluster sampling was performed, and a cross-sectional epidemiological survey was applied via questionnaire among 10,000 college students in each geological area.

RESULTS

The prevalence rate of PPH was 2.08%. The prevalence in female adolescents was slightly higher than the prevalence in male adolescents (2.29 vs. 1.94%). The prevalence of PPH in coastal areas was higher than the prevalence of PPH in inland areas (2.81 vs. 1.53%). The peak age of onset is 7-15 years, accounting for 97.3% of the PPH population. Positive family history was found in 25.40% of PPH cases. In addition to palms, axillae and soles can also be affected.

CONCLUSIONS

PPH affects a larger group of individuals than previously reported. More measures should be taken to enhance the recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of PPH.