A Survey to Understand Acne Patients in Busan

Park, In Ho; Seol, Jung Eun; Kim, Hyojin; Seo, Jong Keun; Lee, Sook Kyung

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Acne vulgaris is a common dermatologic disease that can largely affect psychosocial aspects of the patient.
OBJECTIVE
This study was performed to survey the perception of acne vulgaris, including the cause of acne vulgaris, and patient attitude towards the disease, as well as preference for treatment methods in Busan.
METHODS
A total of 170 patients with acne vulgaris, seeking treatment at 1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-grade hospitals in Busan, were surveyed by questionnaire. Patient informed consent was obtained.
RESULTS
With regards to the cause of acne, increased sebum secretion was the most selected answer, followed by stress and eating habits. Most of the patients believed that all of the acne treatment modalities were effective; however, negative recognition about the safety and durability of each treatment was also reported by a majority of the patients. Acne extraction and laser therapy were the most preferred treatment methods, and the most important reason to choose the treatment method was effectiveness.
CONCLUSION
In this study, we could recognize a patients' overall perception about acne vulgaris. It is suggested that dermatologists should try not only to help patients gain a better understanding about acne but also to cope with their demands.