Healthcare Professionals' Insights and Perspectives on Diet and Acne Vulgaris": A Cross-Sectional Study in A Tertiary Care Institute

Abstract Introduction: Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit, presenting with comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts, primarily affecting the face, back, and chest. It is most prevalent during adolescence, affecting up to 85% of individuals aged 12 to 25 years. The pathogenesis involves increased sebum production, abnormal follicular keratinization, microbial colonization, and inflammation mediated by the adaptive immune system. Recent studies suggest a potential role of diet in acne development. High glycaemic load diets can cause hyperinsulinemia, stimulate androgen production, and activate mTORC1, promoting acne. Dairy intake is associated with elevated IGF-1 and contains androgenic hormones such as DHEA and 5α-DHT, further contributing to acne. Additionally, milk-derived iodine and omega-3 fatty acid deficiency may exacerbate acne symptoms. Aims and objectives 1. To determine healthcare professionals’ perceptions of the role of diet in acne vulgaris. 2. To analyze the severity, distribution, and type of acne lesions in relation to dietary factors. 3. To determine the need for further education and training on dietary interventions in acne management. Materials & Methods: A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted among the healthcare professionals of A J Institute of Medical Sciences, Mangalore, aged 18–35 years clinically diagnosed with acne vulgaris and graded using Pilsbury acne grading scale and were provided with a digital questionnaire. Ethical committee clearance was obtained prior to the study. Results: A total of 120 healthcare professionals participated, predominantly females (75%). Most were doctors (47.5%), followed by medical and nursing students. About 93.3% perceived diet to influence acne, with 25% reporting a significant impact. Fried foods, dairy, and sugary items were commonly associated with severe acne grades (III and IV). Acne negatively affected quality of life, primarily self-confidence (56.7%), interpersonal relationships (56.7%), and daily activities (25.2%), with 7.7% reporting impairment in all three domains. Conclusion: This study emphasizes that a significant proportion of healthcare professionals recognize the influence of diet in the onset and aggravation of acne. High-glycemic foods, dairy products, and oily diets were frequently identified as contributing factors, particularly in more severe forms of acne. The psychosocial impact of acne was also apparent, affecting self-esteem, daily activities, and interpersonal relationships. These findings highlight the importance of integrating dietary evaluation and counseling into standard acne management approaches. Moreover, the results point to the necessity of improving awareness and education among healthcare providers regarding the role of nutrition in dermatological conditions such as acne vulgaris.