A recent survey has shed light on the profound impact of eczema on New Zealanders, revealing a relentless pursuit for relief from its debilitating physical symptoms. Commissioned by the Eczema Association of New Zealand and AbbVie, the survey involved 517 adults with eczema and 98 parents and carers, making it the largest of its kind in the country.
According to the findings, eczema causes itchiness, raw and sensitive skin, pain, discomfort, and sleep loss, severely affecting daily life for 51% of adults surveyed. Mental health struggles were prevalent, with 97% citing negative impacts, including significant levels of low self-esteem (79%), stress (68%), and anxiety (59%).
Vanessa Jenkins, spokesperson for the Eczema Association of New Zealand, emphasized the hidden but profound challenges faced by eczema sufferers. She expressed hope that the survey’s findings would foster greater public understanding and compassion towards those affected.
The survey highlighted that for many, eczema remains unmanageable despite multiple treatment attempts. Seventy percent of respondents indicated ongoing struggles, increasing to 79% for those with moderate-to-severe cases. On average, patients have attempted five treatments, with some trying more than 20, only to face repeated cycles of hope and disappointment.
Dr. Scott Barker from the NZ Dermatology and Skin Cancer Centre noted the lack of a cure for eczema, underscoring the primary goals of managing symptoms to enhance quality of life.
Eczema affects approximately 212,000 adults and 193,000 children in New Zealand, with many enduring its impacts for decades. It disproportionately affects Māori and Pasifika children compared to European/Pākehā children.
The condition not only affects personal well-being but also has economic implications, with estimated annual productivity losses in New Zealand due to eczema-related workplace absences reaching up to $299 million.
Bronwen Marshall, Head of AbbVie New Zealand, emphasized the need for improved public awareness and support for eczema patients. She highlighted existing challenges in accessing timely and effective care, including long waitlists for public dermatology services and limited reimbursed treatment options for moderate-to-severe cases.
Looking ahead, the Eczema Association of New Zealand and AbbVie plan to convene a roundtable with medical, government, and academic experts to discuss survey findings and explore strategies to enhance care accessibility, particularly for those with severe eczema.
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