The Prevalence of Acne and Its Association with Related Factors

Abstract

The skin mirrors the general condition of the individual. Acne forms as a result of obstruction and inflammation of hair follicles and their accompanying sebaceous glands. The present study was undertaken to assess the prevalence of acne and its association with related factors among B.Sc. Nursing students of National Institute of Nursing Education (NINE), PGIMER, Chandigarh in March 2012. A descriptive research design was used with total enumeration sampling technique. A group of 156 students of B.Sc. nursing (1st and 2nd year) were selected for study. Tool was developed through, an extensive literature review and consultation with experts in the field (Nursing and Dermatology). A self-administered questionnaire containing 47 items was developed. It consist of multiple choice questions divided in three parts with identification and socio-demographic data, items related to dietary habits and food preference and item related to acne and its associated factors, respectively. The data revealed that the prevalence of acne was 53.2%. Factors like urban habitat, present residence (paying guest), and consumption of chips were the related factors for acne as per “chi-square test” (p < 0.05). The study also revealed that the subjects perceived the factors like weather change, premenstrual period, neglected treatment seeking behavior worsen their acne. Hence, an awareness programme can be planned regarding factors affecting acne and measures to have healthy skin which further improves their self-esteem and confidence.

Keywords: acne, diet, premenstrual flare up