Beliefs, perceptions and psychological impact of acne vulgaris among patients in the Assir region of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background:There is a paucity of reports in the literature detailing the assessment of the beliefs,perception and psychological impact of acne patients. This is the first study from Saudi Arabia designed to address this issue. Materials and methods: A voluntary self-completed questionnaire was used to collect data from acne patients visiting a community-based hospital in Assir region of Saudi Arabia. Data collected, included: patients biodata, duration and severity of the disease before the presentation, source of knowledge, psychological impact, and medication preference. The findings were compared to those of developed countries. Results: 130 patients completed the questionnaires. Females were more affected than males (71.5%, 28.5% respectively). The M: F ratio was 1:2.5. Males tend to present with more severe form of the disease. Most patients had the disease for more than 1 year at presentation. Most patients sought medical advice as a self-made decision. Doctors were the most common source of information to patients. Most patients believe that hormonal imbalance and dirt were the major cause of acne while most of them believed that stress and diet were the major exacerbating factors. The most significant psychological impact in acne patients was on their self image which was severe in 49% of the patients, while the most bothering symptom was the spot of acne lesion. Most patients had used skin cleansers and creams before seeking medical advice (46.1%, 31.5% respectively). Retinoids and antibiotics were the most known prescribed medications to acne patients. Most acne patients expressed no preference of medication, but most of those who did so preferred topical medication. Conclusions: No major differences were found in the beliefs, perception and psychological impact of acne patients from a developing society compared to more developed societies. More community-based and developmental programmes are needed to upgrade the knowledge and common beliefs of acne patients.