Prevalence and associated factors of acne among patients attending dermatovenereology outpatient department at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023

Acne is a widespread skin condition with both physical and psychological effects. Despite Acne is the eighth most common disease in the world, affecting roughly 9.4% of people worldwide, understanding the specific factors influencing acne remains a research challenge. University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UGCSH) serves as a unique context to explore the epidemiology of acne within a distinct demographic. However, the evidence is limited about the magnitude of acne in this population. By addressing the identified gaps, the study contributes not only to improved patient care but also to the broader understanding of acne. This study aims to assess the prevalence of acne and associated factors among patients attending Dermatovenereology Out Patient Department (OPD) at UGCSH, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023. Institution based analytical cross sectional study design was employed in this study. A systematic random sampling technique was used to recruit a total of 390 participants who attended Dermatovenereology OPD at the UGCSH from September to November 2023. Data were collected by face to face interview and physical examination. The completed data were entered into Epi Info version 7 and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. Descriptive and binary logistic regression data analyses were done. Variables with a p-value of < 0.25 on bivariate analysis were taken to multivariable analysis model to measure Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) after controlling potential confounders and a p-value < 0.05 was used to declare statistically significant associations. The overall prevalence of acne was 26.2% with 95%CI: (21.7%, 30.8%).Those in the age groups 16-20, 21-25 and 26-30 years [AOR: 9.6, 95% CI: (2.9, 31.8), AOR:4.8, 95% CI: (1.8, 13.2),and AOR:4, 95% CI: (1.5, 10.7)], respectively and using hair oil or pomade [AOR : 4.0, 95% CI: (1.8, 9.0)], first degree family history of acne [AOR = 5.1, 95% CI: (2.6, 9.9)], and increased milk intake [AOR:3.1, 95% CI: (1.6, 6.0)] were found to be statistically associated factors with acne. The prevalence of acne in UGCSH was 26.2%. Age (16-30 years), hair oil or pomade use, first degree family history of acne, and increased milk intake were found to be the commo risk factor for acne. It's recommended to develop patient-centered interventions that consider the identified modifiable factors, providing treatment plans that encompass both medical and lifestyle considerations.