ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: There is a paucity of information on the knowledge and understanding of patients with acne about their condition. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to evaluate the knowledge, beliefs, and perceptions of acne patients regarding their understanding of acne pathogenesis, sources of information, treatment options, and expectations. METHODS: Patients referred to a community-based dermatologist for management of acne vulgaris completed a self-administered questionnaire. Responses were correlated with demographic and clinical information. RESULTS: Seventy-four percent of patients waited more than 1 year before seeking medical attention for acne. Nonprescription products used most frequently were cleansers, acne pads, and lotions. Acne was most often believed to be caused by hormonal and genetic factors, although diet, poor skin hygiene, and infection were also implicated. Information on acne was obtained primarily from family physicians, mass media, friends, and family, but was largely believed to be inadequate. Acne was believed to be curable by 49% of patients with an anticipated treatment duration of less than 6 months. Male patients and those with severe acne preferred systemic therapy compared with female patients and those with lesser grades of acne. CONCLUSION: There is a need for accessible, accurate, community-based education on the natural history of acne, pathogenesis, risk of sequelae, the effectiveness and expected duration of treatment, and the importance of prompt medical attention.
Subject(s)
Acne Vulgaris/psychology , Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice , Patient Education as Topic , Acne Vulgaris/physiopathology , Acne Vulgaris/therapy , Adolescent , Adult , Child , Diet , Female , Health Behavior , Health Surveys , Humans , Hygiene , Male , Middle Aged , Physician-Patient Relations , Risk FactorsABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Two hormonal agents with contraceptive properties are currently indicated in Canada for treatment of acne. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the attitudes and concerns of female patients regarding the use of hormonal agents and oral contraceptives in treatment of acne. METHODS: A self-completed questionnaire was administered to all female acne patients of a community-based dermatologist over a 10-week period between June and August 1999. Statistical analysis was performed by chi-square testing at the 5% significance level. RESULTS: Eighty-six percent recognized that oral contraceptives ("birth control pills") were also used as a treatment for acne and 60% were willing to use this form of treatment. The most common concern regarding the use of oral contraceptives were side effects (80%). Younger patients were seven times more likely to be concerned about potential disapproval or misunderstanding on the part of others regarding the use of these medications (p approximately 0.01). CONCLUSION: Female acne patients recognize that oral contraceptives are useful in treatment of acne. Although side effects of these medications are of general concern, social disapproval is of particular concern to younger patients.
