J Mycol Infect.  2023 Dec;28(4):100-107. 10.17966/JMI.2023.28.4.100.

Epidemiology of Scabies in Korea (2010~2021): An Updated Report

• Lee Yj
• Lee Y
• Kim MS
• Lew BL
• Kwon SH

• KMID: 2551439
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.17966/JMI.2023.28.4.100

Abstract

Background
Scabies is a neglected disease that significantly affects the daily lives of patients and their cohabitants.
Objective
To investigate the current epidemiological data regarding scabies in Korea.
Methods
This was a nationwide population-based observational study using data from the National Health Insurance claims database (reference period: 2010~2021). The primary outcome measure was the annual incidence of scabies. Subgroup analyses were performed disaggregated by sex, age, and region of residence.
Results
A total of 517,296 scabies cases were identified, with a male-to-female ratio of 0.83. The annual agestandardized incidence rates steadily decreased from 2010 (97.6 per 100,000 person-years [PY]) to 2021 (43.4 per 100,000 PY), with an average annual percent change of -5.0%. A steep decrease was observed in 2015 (-12.9%), 2020 (-12.7%), and 2021 (-22.8%). An aging trend in patients with scabies was observed, with patients aged ≥50 years accounting for 36.5% and 63.8% of patients in 2010 and 2021, respectively. The ≥80 years age group showed the highest age-specific incidence rate. Although all age groups showed a reduction in annual incidence, the extent of the reduction was relatively greater in patients aged <50 years. The number of patients with scabies was the highest in Gyeonggi, Seoul, and Busan, while the regional incidence rates were highest in Gwangju, Jeonbuk, Jeonnam, Daejeon, and Jeju.
Conclusion
During the last 12 years, there has been a gradual decrease in the overall prevalence of scabies. However, the incidence remains relatively higher among the elderly population.

Keyword

Epidemiology; Incidence; National Health Insurance; Sarcoptes scabiei; Scabies