[State of knowledge and the prevalence of acne (Acne vulgaris) among young people in Szczecin].

INTRODUCTION: Acne vulgaris is a chronic disease associated with dysfunction of the sebaceous glands and the hair follicles. The disorder affects approximately 80% of the Polish youth population and has become an important clinical issue. The aim of this study was to examine the state of knowledge about acne among youth in Szczecin, and to attempt to identify the main causes of the disease.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted among 100 young people in Szczecin aged 12 to 25 years. A validated questionnaire was used for the research.

RESULTS: The questionnaire analysis showed that acne affects 60% of the surveyed young citizens of Szczecin. The study shows that the prevalence of acne depends on the type of skin, tendency to have skin imperfections, and the age of the respondents. Knowledge of skin care, factors affecting the occurrence of acne, and treatments used depend on the age of respondents. The greatest awareness was found among older students and the smallest among secondary school students.

CONCLUSIONS: knowledge about prevention, treatment and skin care is still insufficient, and therefore there is a great need to educate and raise the awareness of young people.