Hand eczema patients' knowledge of skin protection following a guided talk -a retrospective study with a follow-up questionnaire

Background: Several studies have assessed the effect of patient education regarding hand eczema (HE) severity and quality of life. Few studies, however, have evaluated patients’ knowledge. Objectives: To examine knowledge of skin protection in HE patients following a guided talk, and to identify variables associated with knowledge. Methods: HE patients referred to the outpatient dermatological clinic, Bispebjerg Hospital, between January 2013 and July 2014 were offered a guided talk on HE prevention. HE severity and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) score were assessed. A questionnaire comprising 10 questions about skin protection was sent 1 to 2.5 years later. Results: One hundred and twenty patients responded to the questionnaire (response 53.5%). The mean percentage of correct answers was 74.7%. Sixty per cent responded correctly to at least eight questions. Male sex, older age and education for >5 years were associated with a low level of knowledge. Education for 3 to 4 years (P = 0.045) was associated with a higher level of knowledge. No significant impact of previous/current atopic dermatitis, HE severity or previous information on skin protection was found with respect to level of knowledge. Conclusions: Females and patients with education for 3 to 4 years showed the highest level of knowledge, whereas males, older patients and patients with education for >5 years should be brought more into focus in skin protection programmes.