Awareness, Associated Factors, Practices and Myths Regarding Acne among the Students of University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Abstract

Background- Acne is one of the most common multifactorial skin conditions beginning in adolescence and often resolving spontaneously but remains as a significant problem in discuss within the society. Methodology - This study was conducted as a descriptive cross sectional study to describe the awareness of acne, its associated factors, practices and myths regarding acne among the students of the main four faculties of University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Here, an interviewer administered questionnaire was used to a sample of 250 students, aged 20 to 30, selected by stratified random sampling method. Results - Out of 250 students 170 (68%) had self reported acne as far as they had identified the features and most were having acne for more than one year. Whiteheads was the commonest feature of acne (55.6%), secondly the papules (46.4%) and then the pustules (34.8%). Most students agreed that foods with fat and oils cause more acne (90.4%), followed by chocolates (33.6%), spicy foods (11.2%) and fast foods (2.6%). Lack of sleep also had a great impact on acne (74.4%). Commonest practices were washing the face twice a day with an antibacterial soap or cleanser (76.4%) followed by avoiding touching the face with fingers (50.8%) and avoid squeezing the acnes (46.4%). Students strongly believed that dirty and excessive oily skin cause acne (80%) when 60.8% believed that by frequent washing of the face, acne can be cured. Conclusion - Even though most students were aware about the commonest features of acne, their awareness regarding its associated factors was not satisfactory. Myths regarding acne are enduring even among university students who suppose to be more logical and practical. This may be due to their inadequate knowledge regarding acne and health education programmes on acne are needed to improve their awareness on this.