A Study on the Impact of Hyperhidrosis on the Quality of Life among College Students

Hyperhidrosis (HH) is a condition characterized by excessive sweating or perspiration. General population, especially in developing countries like India are seldom aware of this condition and sparsely seek medical attention. The tropical climate and the environment also influence this condition to a greater extent. This can be a hindrance in their professional and social life. Though, it is a widely explored topic, studies on hyperhidrosis from India are rare.

The current study was aimed at estimating the prevalence of hyperhidrosis among college students subjectively and to assess the quality of life using Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).

Five hundred students with age ranging from 17 to 21 years of both genders were included in this study using convenient sampling method. After explaining the study and getting written consent, the students were requested to respond to two questionnaires, one for the subjective diagnosis of hyperhidrosis using a standardized questionnaire developed by North Jersey Thoracic Surgical Associates and the other to assess the quality of life using DLQI. Based on the subjective prevalence scores, the students were divided into 3 groups as "Not bothersome" group, "Somewhat bothersome group" and "Extremely bothersome" group. The DLQI scores of these three groups were compared by ANOVA using SPSS 21.0.

The study revealed that overall, 38% of the students were suffering from somewhat bothersome to extremely bothersome hyperhidrosis. Gender analysis showed that male students were affected more (58%), especially with palmar hyperhidrosis and were significantly requiring treatment when compared to female students. Analysis of DLQI scores using ANOVA revealed the fact that overall quality of life was significantly affected in almost 35% of students to the extent that they require appropriate treatment and care.

This study brings into light the higher prevalence of hyperhidrosis and also its impact on the quality of life among college students in this tropical region.