Patterns, Effects and Outcomes of High Altitude on Skin Diseases in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan

Azhar Hosain  Minhas; Muhammad  Abbas; Neelofar Sadia  Zarrar

doi:10.51253/pafmj.v76iSUPPL-3.6579

Authors

Azhar Hosain Minhas Department of General Medicine, Combined Military Hospital Gilgit Baltistan /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan
Muhammad Abbas Department of General Medicine, Combined Military Hospital Gilgit Baltistan /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan
Neelofar Sadia Zarrar Department of General Medicine, Combined Military Hospital Gilgit Baltistan /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51253/pafmj.v76iSUPPL-3.6579

Keywords:

Eczema, Gilgit Baltistan, High altitude, Pigmentation disorders, Skin disease

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the effects and outcomes of high altitude on dermatological diseases in patients from Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan, presenting to a secondary care hospital in Gilgit.

Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Dermatology, Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan, from Mar 2015 to Mar 2017.

Methodology: A total of 4612 patients attending the dermatology OPD from March 2015 to February 2017 were included. Non-residents of Gilgit Baltistan were excluded. Patients were examined by a consultant dermatologist. Diagnoses were primarily clinical, supported where required by skin biopsies, histopathology, laboratory tests, and skin scrapings. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 11.00 and comparisons were made with other studies.

Results: Of 4612 patients, 2738 (59.40%) were female and 1874 (40.60%) were male (Female: Male ratio of 1.5:1). Eczemas were most common (22.80%), followed by pigmentary disorders (18.60%). Noninfectious diseases (71.00%) predominated over infectious diseases (29.00%). Seasonal variation was evident, with more patients attending in summer (60.40%) than in winter (39.60%).

Conclusion: High-altitude climate significantly influences dermatological disease patterns. Findings can help guide health advisories, preventive strategies, and resource allocation. Photo protection and effective moisturization are important preventive measures.

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