atopic dermatitis is very common worldwide and is becoming more common. it affects males and females equally and accounts for 10%-20% of all referrals to dermatologists (doctors who specialize in the care and treatment of skin diseases). atopic dermatitis occurs most often in infants and children and its onset decreases substantially with age. scientists estimate that 65% of patients develop symptoms in the first year of life and 90% develop symptoms before the age of 5. onset after age 30 is less common and often occurs after exposure of the skin to harsh conditions. people who live in urban areas and in climates with low humidity seem to be at an increased risk for developing atopic dermatitis. about 10% of all infants and young children experience symptoms of the disease. roughly 60% of these infants continue to have one or more symptoms of atopic dermatitis even after they reach adulthood.
how common is atopic dermatitis?