Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is the most common form of eczema found in adults. According to the National Eczema Association, more than 18 million adults in the United States have been diagnosed with AD.

During an annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), data was revealed about the effects of AD on mental health and quality of life. A representative of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) reported that there are greater occurrences of depression, anxiety, itching, and sleep loss in those with moderate to severe AD compared to those with a mild case of the disease.

“The data from the AD in America Study strengthens the evidence of the high prevalence of atopic dermatitis and paints a picture [of] the devastating effects of the disease on quality of life,” said Dr. Zelma C. Chiesa Fuxench, assistant director of dermatology at the Univeristy of Pennsylvania’s Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine. She is also chair of the scientific advisory panel that guided AAFA during this study.