Nigeria, April 18 -- Often dismissed as a minor skin irritation, eczema typically begins as a dry patch but can develop into a chronic condition marked by intense itching, scaly or darkened skin, and social discomfort.

In many parts of Nigeria, however, the condition is still wrongly linked to poor hygiene or spiritual causes, and is sometimes confused with contagious fungal infections, misconceptions that experts say fuel stigma, social isolation, and reliance on unproven treatments.

Speaking with PT Health Watch, Halimat Jimoh, a nurse and a professional midwife, said eczema, medically known as atopic dermatitis, is far more complex than commonly assumed.

Mrs Jimoh who is also a maternal and child health advocate, described it as a c...