Demographic Profile and Risk Factors for Acne Vulgaris Among High-School Students in Benghazi, Libya

Abstract

Background: Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory condition of the pilosebaceous unit, often emerging during puberty due to increased adrenal and gonadal androgen levels or heightened androgen receptor sensitivity. The disease process is multifactorial, involving follicular hyperkeratinization, sebaceous gland enlargement with excessive sebum production, and abnormal keratinocyte shedding that leads to follicular obstruction—all influenced by androgens. Acne affects roughly 9.4% of the global population, making it the eighth most common disease worldwide.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence, demographic distribution, and risk factors of acne vulgaris among Libyan high school students.

This cross-sectional study included 380 students from three randomly selected high schools in Benghazi, Libya, aged 15–18 years. Data collection involved a detailed history covering disease onset, family history, prior treatments, drug use, seborrhea, and potential risk factors. Each participant underwent a dermatological examination of the face, chest, and back to document lesion type, site, and acne type according to the prepared proforma.

In this cross-sectional study of 380 high school students, acne vulgaris was identified in 210 students (55%). Among those affected, 120 (57.1%) were female and 90 (42.9%) were male. The students’ ages ranged from 15 to 18 years. Among the total ance vulgaris detected, 110 students (52.4%) were aged 15–16, while 100 (47.6%) were 17–18 years old. Regarding aggravating factors, 94 students (44.8%) reported consuming fatty foods, 55 (26.2%) cited stress, 34 (16.2%) noted hormonal changes, and 15 (7.1%) linked their acne to cosmetic use. Seborrhea (oily skin) was observed in 162 students (77.1%). The face was the most commonly affected site, seen in 198 students (94.3%), while only 8 students (3.8%) had lesions on the back.

This study indicated that the prevalence of acne vulgaris was 55%. The male-to-female ratio was 1:1.3, and 52.4% were aged 15–16 years. A positive family history was noted in 65.7% of cases. Among the aggravating factors, fatty food intake was recorded in 44.8%, whereas stress was recorded in 26.2%.