Treatment-seeking behavior, knowledge and beliefs about acne vulgaris among adolescents: A cross-sectional study in high school students in Tirana, Albania

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is a common adolescents' disorder. Nevertheless, there is lack of knowledge about acne among adolescents. To evaluate the adolescents' knowledge and beliefs about acne, to investigate help-seeking behavior and treatment preferences. A cross-sectional study conducted in 10 public high schools in Tirana. A total of 2036 students enrolled. All participants were asked about socio-demographic data, knowledge and beliefs about acne, treatment-seeking behaviors and clinical preferences. Of participants 45.3% thought acne is a medical problem, 23.1% thought it's a cosmetic problem, and less than 10% thought acne is a normal condition for their age. Of adolescents 30% did not know that acne is not contagious, 49.7% believed acne is curable with prescribed medication, 33.4% thought acne heals by itself, and only 0.9% believed acne is non-curable. Male adolescents were more likely to have lower level of knowledge and misconceptions about acne compared to females. Only 18.5% had consulted a dermatologist. The majority (54.7%) were using anti-acne products recommended by their friends or pharmacists. Only minority of Albanian adolescents with acne consults a dermatologist. Age, gender and acne severity play a significant role in determining help-seeking behavior. Patient and parent education can significantly improve the treatment outcome.