High prevalence of skin disorders among children have been documented in several studies around the world. It has been highlighted that some of these skin disorders are preventable with some of the factors affecting its occurrence very modifiable. This study aims at ascertain the determinants of skin disorders among school pupils in south-south Nigeria. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional design. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to randomly recruit 351 pupils from primary schools in the area. Data were collected using validated semi-structured self-administered questionnaire. Dermatological diagnosis was made mainly clinically by Dermatologists. Necessary ethical approval and consents were obtained. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS. The point prevalence of skin disorders was 58.7%. The fungal lesion (30.1%) and viral (3.9%) are the most common and the least cause of skin disorders respectively. Statistically significant associations were observed between age (p=0.0001), class level (p=0.0001), mother’s education (p=0.003), SES (p=0.004), family size (p=0.042), number of siblings (p=0.002) and the occurrence of skin disorders. Others factors with significant association include; past history of skin disorder (p=0.027), BMI (p=0.003), frequency of change of underwear (p=0.016) as well as protective effect of consistent use of footwear (p=0.016). However, the other factors considered were found not to be significantly associated with occurrence of skin disorders. The occurrence of some of the skin disorder are modifiable and preventable with improved hygienic practices, nutrition and change in socioeconomic status. As such, increased public enlightenment and health program on these factors will help reduce the burdens from these skin disorders.

Keywords : Skin Disorders, School Aged Children, Prevalence, Determinants, Port-Harcourt, Nigeria.