Adolescents with Atopic Dermatitis experience greater burden of bullying

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a skin condition characterized by recurrent eczematous lesions and intense pruritus. Such patients often experience physical and emotional limitations. This chronic inflammatory condition impacts personal and professional fulfillment.

A recent study published in JAMA Dermatology mentioned that Adolescents who have atopic dermatitis experience greater prevalence and frequency of bullying compared to those without the condition.

Adolescents with skin diseases have reported appearance-based bullying. With greater frequency, this is associated with depression, suicidality, and poor quality of life. In the present study, researchers hypothesized that AD would be associated with increased prevalence and frequency of bullying experiences.

11.9 per cent of the 3,207 adolescents had current Atopic dermatitis. Adolescents with AD had a higher prevalence of experiencing bullying compared to those without AD (33.2 versus 19.0 per cent). The percentage of cyberbullying was 9.1 versus 5.8 per cent.

Adolescents with skin disease were more likely to report bullying experiences, and those with AD had greater odds of experiencing cyberbullying. However, the link between AD and cyberbullying diminished when adjusting for atopic comorbidities.

More extensive studies are needed for more understanding of bullying and AD. Clinicians, families, and schools need to address this issue and monitor bullying among adolescents with a history of AD.

Reference: Cheng A, Wan J, Chen SC, Yeung H. Atopic Dermatitis and Bullying Among US Adolescents. JAMA Dermatol. Published online October 25, 2023. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2023.4138