Atopic dermatitis affects 3 million people in Italy

Approximately three million people in Italy live with atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition. According to data released by Apiafco (Associazione psoriasici italiani amici della Fondazione Corazza) ahead of World Atopic Dermatitis Day on September 14, the condition affects 8.1% of the adult population and 16.5% of children.

Atopic dermatitis is characterized by an altered skin barrier, intense itching, redness, and extreme dryness. While not contagious, the condition is often cyclical, with periods of improvement followed by flare-ups. It is linked to genetic predispositions and immune system reactivity, and can be associated with other allergic conditions such as rhinoconjunctivitis and bronchial issues.

Apiafco president Valeria Corazza emphasized that the condition is highly disabling and impacts sleep, social life, and psychological well-being, rather than being merely an aesthetic issue. The association highlighted concerns regarding regional disparities in access to care and noted that the condition is not currently included in the severe forms of the Essential Levels of Care (LEA).