Stigmatization in patients with chronic skin diseases in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study.

Chronic skin diseases such as psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema, and acne can have substantial psychosocial effects beyond physical symptoms. Visible dermatological conditions often lead to stigmatization, which may negatively influence social interactions, emotional well-being, and quality of life. However, limited research has examined perceived stigmatization among patients with chronic skin diseases in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to quantify and compare perceived stigmatization among patients with chronic skin diseases and identify demographic and clinical factors associated with stigma severity. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 446 patients with chronic skin diseases. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, including sociodemographic characteristics, clinical information, and the 6-Item Stigmatization Scale. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics. Independent t-tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multivariable linear regression analysis were performed to examine associations between stigma scores and demographic and clinical variables. A total of 446 participants were included, with females comprising 264 (59.2%) and most aged 18-40 years (291, 65.2%). Vitiligo (114, 25.6%) and psoriasis (102, 22.9%) were the most common conditions. Many participants reported stigma-related experiences, including feeling unattractive sometimes or very often (326, 73.0%). Stigma scores were significantly higher among males than females (8.12±3.93 vs. 7.03±4.73, p=0.011) and varied by monthly income (p<0.001). Stigma also differed across disease types (p<0.001), with the highest scores among vitiligo patients (8.74±3.98). In regression analysis, gender (B=1.039, p=0.016), age at disease onset (B=0.052, p=0.002), disease duration (B=-1.268, p=0.003), and family history (B=1.825, p<0.001) were significant predictors of stigma. To conclude, stigmatization is a common psychosocial burden among patients with chronic skin diseases. Addressing stigma through patient support, public education, and integrated psychological care may help improve the well-being of affected individuals.