Dairy consumption and acne: a case control study in Kabul, Afghanistan

Previous observational studies suggest that the development of acne may be triggered by dairy intake.

This study aimed to investigate the association of dairy intake and acne in Kabul citizens.

From February to September 2018, 279 acne patients and 279 controls aged 10-24 years were enrolled in a case control study at the dermatologic outpatient department of Maiwand Teaching Hospital in Kabul City, Afghanistan. The acne severity was determined by a dermatologist using the Global Acne Severity Scale.

The consumption of whole milk 3 days or more per week was associated with moderate to severe acne (OR =2.36, 95% CI, 1.39-4.01). The association for low fat milk was less marked than for whole milk (OR 1.95 CI, 1.10-3.45). The risk was increased in those with a family history of acne in siblings (OR =4.13, 95% CI, 2.55-6.69). The risk was reduced in subjects doing physical exercise. No association with smoking emerged. A protective effect was associated with chicken consumption (OR =0.27, 95% CI, 0.15-0.49). Consumption of chocolate and chips was positively associated with acne.

This study showed an association between high intakes of dairy products and acne in adolescence suggesting that dairy intake may be a factor contributing to acne.