Acne Vulgaris and Its Association with Dietary Habits at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan

Background: Acne is a common skin disorder among younger age group. Dietary pattern are the key determinants among acne patients. The objective of this study is to determine the association of acne vulgaris with dietary habits among patients at tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan.

Methods: it is a cross sectional study and participants were selected through simple random sampling from outpatient department of tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. Patients presenting with acne irrespective of severity and treatment were included in the study. Bivariate analyses conducted at 95% CI and p=<0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: Females gender (62%) and family history (61%) was significantly associated with acne. Face region was most (92%) affected by acne. GI upset most common co-morbid illness with Acne (p=0.006). After adjustment of covariate, those consume oily food [Daily oily food; Twice a weekly oily food)]; sugar rich food [Daily consumed sugar; Twice a weekly consumed] and less glass of water [8-10 glass per day; 6-8 glass per day; less than 6 glass per] were significantly associated with acne.

Conclusion: Study found that un-healthy diet is significantly associated with acne. Common dietary predictors for acne were frequent use of oily food, sugary food, and less amount of drink water.