Background
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common dermatologic condition, and among the most common dermatologic diagnoses in older populations. Although the prevalence of AK depends on demographic and environmental factors, little is known about the global context of AK. An improved understanding of the global prevalence of AK can inform more effective preventative health campaigns in different settings and subgroups.
Methods
A systematic search of Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was performed on May 20th, 2022. Two reviewers independently screened and assessed the quality of each study using a validated critical appraisal checklist. Epidemiologic measurements (e.g., prevalence) from individual studies you were performed in the general population were then pooled in a random-effects meta-analysis. Subgroup analyses (i.e., population age, geographic region, occupation, sex, and study quality) were conducted.
Results
Out of the 65 articles that made it through the full-text screening, 60 reported a point prevalence. A meta-analysis of these articles yielded an overall point prevalence of 14% [95% CI: (14-15%)]. The calculated prevalence ranged depending on subgroup in further analyses. The pooled incidence rate from the 7 eligible studies analyzed was 1,928 per 100,000 person-years [95% CI: (−439; 4,294)].
Conclusions
This comprehensive meta-analysis provides an updated global prevalence AK at 14%, indicating a significant worldwide disease burden. The incidence rate of AK was found to be 1,928 per 100,000 person-years, emphasizing a growing public health concern. However, high heterogeneity among studies suggests the influence of various factors on AK prevalence necessitating further research for understanding the observed differences.