The impact of acne: a study of adolescents' attitudes, perception and knowledge

To assess adolescent students' attitudes to, perceptions and knowledge of acne and to assess the effect of acne on daily living.

Students from Auckland sixth and seventh form classes were selected from ten Auckland secondary schools using a randomisation process which ensured proportional representation by socioeconomic group and gender. Eight hundred and forty-seven students completed a written questionnaire on the subject of acne vulgaris and had their acne examined. Their acne was graded using a modification of the Leeds system which determines severity on the basis of number, extent and nature of the skin lesions.

Acne was present in 91% of males and 79% of females. Students' perceptions of the severity of their acne were significantly related to objective clinical assessment (p=0.00001). Severity of acne determined the extent of embarrassment (p<0.00001) and the lack of enjoyment of and participation in social activities (p<0.00002). These analyses were significant for both males and females. Students had misconceptions regarding the causes of acne. Parental occupation and ethnic group were related to knowledge of treatment for acne.

Acne causes personal and social difficulties for a large number of adolescent students. There is a need for all students to have access to appropriate information and health services so that the social and psychological consequences of acne are minimised.