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- Tizek, L, et al.
(author)
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Eczema-related Web Search Data in Sweden: Investigating Search Patterns and the Influence of Weather
- 2022
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In: Acta dermato-venereologica. - : Medical Journals Sweden AB. - 1651-2057 .- 0001-5555. ; 102, s. adv00810-
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- As atopic eczema is triggered by environmental factors, such as temperature, differences in disease burden between and within countries are possible. One method to study this phenomenon is to perform web-search analysis, since the internet is commonly used to retrieve health-related information. This study, investigating the Google search volume regarding eczema in Swedish counties between April 2017 and March 2021, revealed a continuous increase in number of searches and that the search volume was higher in Northern than Southern Sweden. Gotland had the most searches per 100,000 inhabitants. In general, there was a negative correlation between search volume and temperature (r=–0.315, p < 0.001) and hours of sunshine (r=–0.213, p < 0.001), whereas there was a positive association between search volume and wind (r=0.229, p < 0.001). Search engine analysis is a rapid and cost-effective method of examining search behaviour regarding disease among the general population within a country and, thus, can enable the identification of regions with specific interests and needs.
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