Background: The correlation between atopic dermatitis and food allergies is well-documented within the scientific community. However, the precise influence of various food allergens on the worsening of atopic dermatitis symptoms remains a subject of considerable debate and ongoing research. This study aims to explore in depth the potential link between dietary habits and the severity of atopic dermatitis in a pediatric population living in Goma. Methods: As part of an analytical approach, a cross-sectional study was conducted in the dermatology department of the North Kivu Provincial Hospital, involving a sample of 342 patients examined between January and June 2025. The collected data were digitized and analyzed using SPSS software, version 26. Results: The study revealed that 35.7% of patients suffered from a severe form of atopic dermatitis. Univariate analysis showed a statistically significant association between the severity of atopic dermatitis and several factors, including urban residence (p = 0.002), the dry season (p < 0.001), delayed introduction of solid foods (p = 0.004), consumption of more than three meals per day (p = 0.001), and being overweight (p = 0.003). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that frequent consumption of junk food, specifically candies, pastries, chocolate, fried potatoes, potato chips, and sweets (OR = 1.185, 95% CI = 1.113 - 2.345, p = 0.000) and dairy products (OR = 1.902, 95% CI = 1.160 - 3.111, p = 0.011) significantly increased the risk of developing a severe form of atopic dermatitis. Conversely, frequent consumption of fruits and vegetables was found to be significantly associated with a less severe form of atopic dermatitis (OR = 1.250, 95% CI = 1.048 - 1.491, p = 0.013). Conclusion: The hypothesis that eliminating or selectively introducing certain foods may be a relevant therapeutic strategy to reduce the risk of severity associated with atopic dermatitis in children deserves consideration.
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