Research Summary

International Survey Highlights Gaps in Atopic Dermatitis Education Across the US, Europe, Japan, and the Gulf Region

Edited by:
Ashton L. Stahl
03/31/2026

Key Highlights

  • In a survey of 1,103 participants, 46% reported difficulty managing atopic dermatitis symptoms.
  • Nearly half (46%) wanted a structured list of questions for healthcare visits; 42% sought more information on triggers.
  • Safety (53%) and mechanism of action (54%) were the top factors influencing decisions about new treatments.
  • Disease burden and educational preferences were consistent across the United States, Europe, Japan, and the Gulf region.

PUPC logoTake Your Understanding of Atopic Dermatitis to the Next Level at the Practical Updates in Primary Care Virtual Meeting

Practical Updates in Primary Care provides expert-led education on atopic dermatitis and related clinical challenges. Join clinicians nationwide for practical insights, emerging research, and evidence-based strategies.

Register for Practical Updates in Primary Care today to deepen your clinical expertise and improve patient management.

An international survey of patients and caregivers suggests that while access to atopic dermatitis (AD) information is relatively high, substantial gaps remain in educational content and communication tools. The findings, published in Dermatology and Therapy, indicate strong interest in practical, patient-centered resources to support disease management and shared decision-making.

The cross-sectional, anonymous, online survey was conducted from December 2024 through January 2025. Eligible participants were adults aged 18 years or older residing in the United States, France, Germany, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, or Saudi Arabia who were either diagnosed with AD by a medical professional or caregivers of children aged 6–12 years with AD. Recruitment occurred through the Global Allergy and Airways Patient Platform website, social media channels, newsletters, and SurveyMonkey audience panels. The 25-question survey assessed demographics, disease history, daily impact, and educational preferences. Results were analyzed descriptively without adjustment for nonresponse.

Study Findings

Among 1,103 respondents, 68% were adult patients and 32% were caregivers. Most participants resided in the United States (56%), followed by Europe (25%), the Gulf region (13%), and Japan (6%). Nearly half (43%) reported a diagnosis within the past 2 years.

Disease burden was substantial. Of the participants, 95% reported experiencing symptoms at least a few times annually, and 50% reported daily to weekly symptoms. Dry, cracked skin, pruritus, and rash were commonly reported. Nearly half (46%) described managing AD as difficult or very difficult. Healthcare utilization during flare-ups was notable: 25% reported emergency department visits, 37% reported urgent care visits, 18% reported hospitalizations, and 29% reported oral corticosteroid use.

The psychosocial impact was also pronounced. Participants reported anxiety (46%), fatigue (31%), impaired sleep quality (29%), depression (28%), and reduced ability to work (27%) as key areas affected by AD.

Although 61% found it easy or very easy to locate AD information, respondents expressed clear preferences for improved content. Of the participants, 46% desired a list of important questions to bring to appointments, 42% wanted more information about flare triggers, and 40% wanted tools to better communicate AD’s impact to clinicians.

Regarding new therapies, over half of the participants wanted information on safety, mechanism of action, and treatment duration. When asked what would influence their decision to try a newly approved therapy, 54% prioritized education on how the medication works, and 53% prioritized safety and side effects.

Clinical Implications

According to the study authors, patient and caregiver education remains essential for improving disease management and quality of life with AD. While general awareness of disease chronicity and information access were high, the findings demonstrate an opportunity to refine educational materials to address better trigger identification, treatment mechanisms, and structured communication tools for clinic visits.

Expert Commentary

“Despite globally available effective treatments, the survey results demonstrated a remaining burden of disease in some individuals and an interest in access to improved therapies,” the researchers concluded. “Empowering patients and caregivers with evidence-based, practical education—especially tools that facilitate doctor-patient communication at visits, treatment options, and coping with emotional health and quality of life impacts—could enhance adherence, reduce disease burden, and foster better health outcomes globally.”

Reference

Willard K, Novak Š, Lio PA, Luttmann M, McCreary G, Mustafa G, Tal-Singer R. Patient and caregiver perceptions on education and treatment needs in atopic dermatitis from an international survey. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2026;16:391-403. doi:10.1007/s13555-025-01587-9