Beliefs, perceptions and expectations among acne patients

Objective To evaluate the information, its source, beliefs and perceptions of acne patients regarding acne and their expectations about treatment. Patients and methods All acne patients visiting Dermatology outpatient clinic at WAPDA Teaching Hospital Complex, Lahore and at private practice for management were asked to fill a voluntary questionnaire containing information about patients’ beliefs and perception about acne. Grading was done by a dermatologist. Result 449 patients completed the pro forma. Males were 37% and females 63%. 54.1% of patients waited for one year to have treatment. More than 60% thought acne as a curable disease and more than 50% expected it to clear in 2-4 weeks. Most of them decided themselves to visit the doctor or were influenced by their parents. Most of them gathered information regarding acne from close relatives and friends. Infection and poor hygiene (less washing of face with soap) was thought to be the most important cause. Facial masks and lotions were most commonly tried non-prescription acne products. 45% thought that acne had a severe impact on their self-image. Topical treatment was the most desired one. More than 40% of patients had grade IV acne and there was no significant difference between males and females regarding grade wise presentation. Conclusion Community-based health education program is required to increase the awareness about acne and to resolve the misconceptions