Epidemiological Aspects of Acne in Iraqi Hospitals (A Cross-Sectional Study of 109 Patients)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51699/ijhsms.v4i2.532Keywords:
Epidemiological Aspects, Acne, Hormonal Therapy, Oral, Isotretinoin, Severity, TreatmentAbstract
Acne vulgaris is a widespread dermatological condition, predominantly affecting adolescents but also persisting into adulthood, with limited data available from Iraq. This cross-sectional study, conducted from January to June 2023 in the dermatology department of an Iraqi hospital, assessed 109 patients aged 12 to 40 years to explore acne prevalence, severity, associated risk factors, clinical forms, and psychosocial impact. Data were collected via structured questionnaires covering demographic details, lifestyle habits, acne classification, and prior treatments. Statistical analysis using SPSS v26 revealed that most participants were females (60.6%) and the 18–24 age group had the highest prevalence (41.2%). Inflammatory acne was most common (64.2%), with moderate severity observed in 45.9% of patients. Key risk factors included high-glycemic diets, dairy consumption, stress, and genetic predisposition, with stress showing a strong correlation to disease severity (OR: 2.5, p<0.05). Topical retinoids and antibiotics were the most frequently used treatments, while herbal remedies highlighted cultural influences. Post-treatment quality of life scores improved significantly across emotional and social dimensions (p<0.001). A notable negative correlation (r = -0.67) was found between acne severity and quality of life. The study emphasizes the multifactorial nature of acne and its substantial psychosocial burden, advocating for integrated management strategies that include both medical and lifestyle interventions. These findings highlight the need for targeted public health approaches and further longitudinal research in Iraq.
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