Family quality of life among parents of children diagnosed with atopic dermatitis: a cross-sectional study at a tertiary hospital in Jeddah

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an immune-mediated inflammatory process characterized by pruritus and skin dryness. It is considered one of the most common chronic conditions in pediatrics, affecting an estimated 20% of children worldwide. While previous studies showed AD has a clear and significant impact on caregivers of children with AD, our geographical area still needs similar evidence, given the scarcity of studies in this field. As far as our knowledge goes, this is the first study of its kind in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to assess family quality of life among parents and legal guardians of children with AD attending a university hospital in Saudi Arabia, in order to support a more comprehensive family-centered approach to disease management.

Methods: Our study is a single-center, cross-sectional, caregiver survey-based study measuring the family quality of life of caregivers of AD patients using the Family Dermatology Life Quality Index (FDLQI). We hypothesized that caregivers in our population would have impaired quality of life, consistent with global data. We recruited caregivers of children (aged 0–14 years) diagnosed with AD at the pediatric allergy clinic of King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, between July 2023 and August 2024 via telephone contact. Family quality of life was measured using the validated FDLQI, scored 0–30, with higher scores indicating greater impairment.

Results: Our results indicate that FDLQI scores, reflecting impaired family quality of life, were higher among mothers (mean 11.08±6.2) compared to fathers (mean 8.16±3.8), but the overall difference between caregivers was not statistically significant. The overall mean FDLQI score among all participants was 10.22±5.84. While no significant differences were identified by caregiver role, child age, disease duration or comorbidities, the overall FDLQI score (10.22±5.84) indicates moderate family quality of life impairment. These findings provide the first local evidence from Saudi Arabia; null results should be interpreted with caution given the limited sample size and the lack of data on disease severity.

Conclusions: Family quality of life is impaired among caregivers of children with AD in Jeddah, regardless of child age, disease duration, or parental role, underscoring the need for universal psychosocial support in pediatric dermatology practice. Our findings provide foundational local evidence and highlight the need for larger longitudinal studies in the region.