Quality of life in acne patient.

Background: Acne is considered a common and difficult condition that can affect many aspects of health- related quality of life (HRQoL). The psychosocial effects of acne can produce anxiety, depres- sion and other psychological problems. Methods: Our study analyzed 718 patients (440 females and 278 males), with an average age of 21 (+ 4.2), affect- ed by acne. A questionnaire (CADI: The Cardiff Acne Disability Index) was given to first time visiting patients to evaluate acne information, cutaneous habits and the impact that the pathology has on social life. A statistical univariate analysis and c 2 test were performed. Statistics of Cohen was performed too. Results: 57% of the patients studied stated that acne caus- es noticeable discomfort in their lives. However, the data is more evident in females (66%) compared to males (33.5%). Our data confirmed a correlation between the level of dis- comfort in the patient and severity of acne ( c 2 = 34.27; p < 0.001), but they stated also a strong correlation with the time of appearance respect to severity (mild acne > 5 years created more discomfort vs. severe acne < 1 year). Conclusions: Our research shows how much acne’s symptoms can deteriorate the emotional well being in young people. The CADI questionnaire authorizes physi- cians to perform a “psychological consultation” as a way for the patient to accept his or her pathological condition, and especially so they believe in the success of their therapy.