Beliefs, perceptions and psychosocial impact of acne amongst Singaporean students in tertiary institutions.

BACKGROUND

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition which can have a negative impact on a patient's quality of life.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

A survey was distributed among students at tertiary institutions. Data was collected on participants' own rating of acne grade and how acne affected their social life. A clinician on-site graded the participants' acne.

RESULTS

Of the 429 students who participated in the survey, 59.8 % felt embarrassed or self-conscious because of their acne. There was a low but statistically significant correlation (Spearman's Correlation Coefficient = 0.471, p < 0.001) between participants' and clinicians' grading of acne.

CONCLUSIONS

Acne vulgaris causes a considerable amount of psychosocial stress. There are unfounded beliefs surrounding acne and unawareness of treatment options available.