Global prevalence of mental health comorbidity in patients with acne: An analysis of trends from 1961 to 2023.

Abstract

Background: Acne patients increasingly face mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. However, no global systematic analysis exists on this topic.

Objective: To examine the prevalence of mental disorders-specifically, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts-among acne patients.

Methods: An exhaustive search of six databases was conducted up to May 2023. Data analysis was performed using Python and STATA MP 17, including subgroup evaluations, meta-regression, and sensitivity analyses.

Results: Forty-three studies were analyzed. Findings indicate depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts in acne patients are prevalent at 22%, 30%, and 12% respectively. Depression rates peaked in Asia at 42%, led by India (53%) and Saudi Arabia (51%). Anxiety was also most common in Asia, at 45%, notably in Singapore (60%) and Iran (58%). Suicidal thoughts were highest in Oceania, specifically New Zealand, at 24%.

Limitations: The study is limited by the inclusion of only Chinese and English-language research, potentially introducing selection bias.

Conclusion: The results of this study highlight the incidence of mental health disorders coexisting with acne, which may help to foster greater understanding and awareness among both medical professionals and patients regarding the psychological complexities tied to acne.