Evaluation of Acne Prevalence and Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Regarding this Disease among Students of Health Related Colleges at University of Jordan

Abstract

Introduction: Acne vulgaris is a multifactorial disease involving pilosebaceous unit of skin, considered commonest dermatological disease, accounts for 16% of the global dermatological burden. Despite that, acne has a lot of circulating misbelieves and misconceptions with poor practice and attitude, unfortunately no local study to address these issues among students. This study conducted to evaluate prevalence of acne vulgaris and to assess knowledge attitude and practice. Methodology: A cross sectional descriptive study conducted in Amman, capital of Jordan from January 2022 to April 2022 among students of health-related colleges at university of Jordan. Sample consisted of 600 students distributed among 5 colleges, each participant answered structured questionnaire containing 33 items. Results: Sample consisted of 600 students, 55.8% were males, 44.2% were females, with 36.7% prevalence of acne. Mean age and standard deviation was21.75±1.99 years. Significant association was found between acne and younger age (p = 0.016), and lower income (p = .002).  Around 60% of sample had poor knowledge score with significant relation between students' score and age group (p = .002), gender (p = <.001), and students' college (p = .014). Discussion and Conclusion: First observation of our study was the significantly low knowledge of students, only forty percent had good score with risk for poor score associated with younger age, and male sex. In general students' attitude and practice was favorable with few exceptions. Implications to our study include awareness-raising campaigns directed at younger age groups, while ensuring education on correct management including attitude and practice.