Knowledge, attitude and behaviour towards the role of diet in acne vulgaris among students

Authors

  • D. Manoharan Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  • K. V. Udhayini Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  • K. Manoharan Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  • N. Ashok Kumar Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3933.ijam20213708

Abstract

Background: Acne is one of the most common chronic inflammatory conditions reported on daily basis in a skin clinic. It’s pathology lies at the level of pilosebaceous apparatus and is influenced by various factors like hormones, certain foods, drug intake and so on. There are several discrepancies surrounding the role of diet in acne. The aim of the study was to explore the knowledge, attitude and behaviour towards the role of diet in acne vulgaris among students.

Methods: This was a cross sectional study conducted in Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai during January 2021 to May 2021. 107 random medical students with acne were enrolled in the study. Students with acne vulgaris not willing to participate in the study and students with acneiform eruptions were excluded. Data was collected using a standard, semi-structured questionnaire. Questionnaire was presented in English through a google form. The questionnaire comprised of socio-demographic data like age and gender. Data was entered in Microsoft word and represented in frequency and percentage.

Results: Among the 107 students enrolled in the study, 37 were males and 70 were females. 56 students were in 17-20 age group and remaining 51 were in 21-24 years age group. Our study showed that 64.5% (69) agreed that there was an association between diet and acne vulgaris, while 9.3% (10) denied it and 26.2% (28) were unsure about the association between the two. Majority of them encountered acne localized to face mainly involving cheeks, only 2 people reported acne over trunk. Out of 97 students who opined of the association of diet with acne, only 13 students consulted a dermatologist and opted for medication. Out of 13, only 7 reported to have a positive outcome with combination of advised medication and stoppage of triggered foods. Out of 97 students who opined of the association of diet with acne, only 13 students consulted a dermatologist and opted for medication.

Conclusions: The understanding of the disease and the ways adopted by these students look decent enough but mandate few changes in their attitude and behaviour.

References

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Published

2021-09-22

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Original Research Articles