Beliefs and perceptions about acne among undergraduate medical students
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66344/jpad.17.4.2007.706Keywords:
Acne vulgaris, perceptions, myths.Abstract
Background Acne is a common disease affecting adolescents. It was hypothesized that
misconceptions prevail among undergraduate medical students about acne.
Objectives To determine the extent of misconceptions about acne in our undergraduate
medical students.
Patients and methods: The students of Foundation University Medical College of first four
year classes, whether suffering from acne or not, were included in the study. These students
completed a specially designed questionnaire.
Results A total of 343 students participated in the study. The age range was from 17-21 years.
The male to female ratio was 1:1.75. With respect to the causative factors 87% claimed poor
hygiene, 82% identified stress, 79% incriminated diet (chocolates and cola drinks). As far as
general measures for acne were concerned, 75% believed that very frequent washing of face
would result in fewer breakouts, 70% took acne as a contagious disease and 12% believed
that squeezing the pimples would help them go away faster. As regards treatment for acne,
53% believed that Betnovate® or a mixture of creams with Betnovate® is a treatment option,
30% suggested that one should let acne run its course without treatment and 18 % believed
that there is no treatment for acne scars.
Conclusions Misconceptions about acne are widespread and enduring among our
undergraduate medical students. A health education program is needed to improve their
understanding of the condition.
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