Regional Variations in Lichen Sclerosus Incidence in Sweden
Author Information
Author(s): Sandra Jerkovic Gulin, Georgios Kravvas, Oliver Seifert
Primary Institution: Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Ryhov County Hospital, Sweden
Hypothesis
This study aims to examine the incidence, demographic characteristics, and regional distribution of Lichen Sclerosus in Sweden over a 20-year period.
Conclusion
The study highlights significant regional variations in the incidence of Lichen Sclerosus across Sweden.
Supporting Evidence
- The mean annual incidence of LSc was 0.81 per 1000 individuals across Sweden.
- Females had a higher incidence rate of 1.14 per 1000 compared to males at 0.47 per 1000.
- Regions like Blekinge, Kalmar, and Gotland exhibited the highest incidence rates.
Takeaway
Lichen Sclerosus is a skin condition that affects people in different parts of Sweden at different rates, especially more in women than men.
Methodology
A nationwide register-based study using data from the Swedish National Patient Register to identify cases of LSc diagnosed between 2001 and 2021.
Potential Biases
Potential underreporting of LSc cases diagnosed in primary care settings.
Limitations
The study does not include primary care data, which may lead to an underestimation of the true incidence of LSc.
Participant Demographics
The study included 154,424 individuals diagnosed with LSc, with a focus on demographic characteristics such as sex and age.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 29.2–30.1%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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