Prevalence and Contributing Factors of Acne Vulgaris Among the General Population in the Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

TL;DR

This study found that over two-thirds of people in Saudi Arabia's Jazan region have acne, with oily skin and being female as key risk factors.

Contribution

The study provides region-specific insights into acne prevalence and risk factors in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia.

Findings

66.8% of participants had acne, with mild severity being most common.

Oily skin doubled the likelihood of acne compared to dry skin.

Age, female gender, and oily skin were significant predictors of acne.

Abstract

Introduction: Acne vulgaris is one of the most prevalent inflammatory conditions in the world that primarily affects teenagers. Its prevalence and the contributing factors vary across different regions and populations. Genetic predisposition, hormonal influences, dietary habits, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors are believed to be significant contributors.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 419 participants from the Jazan region, Saudi Arabia. The study employed non-probability convenience sampling techniques. Data were collected through online questionnaires and analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS, version 27; IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Armonk, NY).

Results: The study found that acne prevalence was high, affecting more than half (66.8%) of the participants, with mild severity reported by 51.8%. Pimples were most commonly found on the face (65.2%), followed by the back (45.3%) and chest (29.6%). Participants with oily skin had twice the likelihood of acne compared to those with dry skin (OR=2.14). Increasing age was associated with a 5% decrease in acne risk per year. Significant associations were found for age (p=0.010), female gender (p=0.017), and oily skin (p<0.001) with acne development.

Conclusion: The study found a high prevalence rate of acne vulgaris among the young population in the Jazan region, Saudi Arabia. Age, female gender, and having oily skin were predictors for developing acne vulgaris. Complications such as acne scarring and psychological impacts such as shyness underscore the significant burden of acne on social and psychological well-being. Enhanced treatment and improved quality of life necessitate heightened awareness campaigns concerning acne vulgaris, its treatments, and associated complications, as revealed by the study.