Descriptive epidemiology of acne vulgaris in the community

Acne is a common skin condition. No universaUyaccepted standardized classification system for acnevulgaris exists, althongh there is a strong need for itThus, the clinical definition of acne has been unclearin many studies. The reported prevalence of acne variesfrom 35 to over 90 of adolescents at some stage. Insome studies the prevalence of comedones approaches100 in both sexes during adolescence. The prevalenceof acne varies between sexes and age groups, appearingearlier in females than in males, possibly refiecting theearlier onset of puherty. There is a greater severity ofacne in males than in females in the late teens, whichis compatible vrith androgens being a potent stimulusto sebum secretion. The prevalence of acne at a givenage has been shown to be highly dependent on thedegree of sexual maturity. Acne commonly shows a pre-menstrual increase in women. Some studies havedetected seasonal variability in acne vulgaris, with thecolder months associated with exacerbation and thewarmer months showing improvement Other studieshave not confirmed these findings. Several studies thathave investigated the psychosocial impact of acne havehad confiicting results. The prevalence of severe acnehas decreased over the past 20 years due to improvedtreatment The general prevalence figure for acne mayhe confounded by treatment and this factor needs to beaccounted for when collecting data.