Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Awareness of Scabies Among Patients Attending Dermatology Outpatient Department at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Swat, Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52206/jsmc.2025.15.4.1263Abstract
Background: Scabies is a neglected parasitic skin infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis, and remains a public health challenge, especially in low-resource settings. Despite its high prevalence, the disease is underreported and awareness levels are poor, contributing to ongoing transmission.
Objective: To determine the prevalence, risk factors, and awareness of scabies among patients presenting to the dermatology outpatient department (OPD) at Saidu Group of Teaching Hospital, Swat, Pakistan.
Methodology: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 patients clinically diagnosed with scabies. Inclusion criteria encompassed patients of all ages and genders presenting with pruritic skin lesions. Data on demographics, socioeconomic characteristics, hygiene practices, and awareness were collected using a structured and pretested questionnaire. Diagnosis was made by dermatologists using standard criteria, with dermoscopy and ink test applied in doubtful cases. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0, applying descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: The mean age of participants was 29.6 ± 20.5 years, with the highest prevalence observed in the 20–50 years age group (58.7%). Females (55.7%) were more affected than males (44.3%). Most participants resided in rural areas (72%) and belonged to lower socioeconomic classes (79%). Overcrowding (78%) and close contact with infected individuals (97%) were major risk factors. Daily washing of clothes and bedding was practiced by only 2% of participants. Awareness was extremely poor, with 97.7% reporting no prior knowledge of scabies, and misconceptions regarding transmission and prevention were common.
Conclusion: Scabies was highly prevalent in rural, low-income populations characterized by overcrowding, poor hygiene, and limited awareness. Strengthening health education, improving living conditions, and implementing community-level interventions are essential to reduce the burden and prevent reinfestation cycles.
Keywords: Awareness, Hygiene practices, Risk factors, Sarcoptes scabiei, Scabies.
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