Prevalence of Skin Diseases among School going Children of 5-13 Years in a Private School, Cuddalore

INTRODUCTION: Skin disease are common in school going children and lead to significant morbidity. AIM: To find out the prevalence of skin disease among school going children of cuddalore district. MATERIALS AND METHOD: A cross sectional study was conducted among school children of cuddalore district. A total of 320 students were included in the study. Diagnosis were made through proper history and examination. RESULTS: The age of the selected individuals were between 5 to 13. Skin disorder were observed in 202 children yielding a prevalence of 63 % and 118 (37 %) were clinically free from disease.135 (42 %) of bys were affected and 67 (58 %) of girls were affected. Infectious disease accounted for 25.7 % (83), non infectious disease accounted for 16 % (35) and infestation accounted for 26 % (84). More than one lesions were seen in 14 (4.3 %). CONCLUSION: Prevalence of skin disease were found to be high among school going children. Health education of children, teacher and caregivers regarding signs and symptoms of dermatoses for early detection and timely intervention.