RESUMO
Background Striae distensae (SD) or stretch marks are a common dermatological condition where the dermis becomes scarred. This phenomenon is associated with many risk factors. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical variables and risk factors in patients with SD in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the clinical variables and risk factors for stretch marks among adults in Riyadh, KSA. An electronic questionnaire with an informed consent section was distributed randomly to a sample of adult patients in Riyadh city, KSA, from April to June 2021. A sample size of 512 participants was calculated using the Cochran formula (n = Z2pq/e2), considering 95% confidence and precision of at least ±5%. A 95% confidence level yielded Z values of 1.96, per the normal tables. Results A total of 512 participants were included in this study. This study found that 41.4% of the participants were aged 15 to 25 years of which, 70.4% of the participants were females, and 38.2% had a body mass index (BMI) of 24 or more. More than half of the participants (54.0%) indicated white skin color. The most prevalent area of striae, as reported by the participants, was the abdomen (57%). Around 19.1% of the participants with stretch marks stated that they were smokers, and 23.9% stated that they were obese o, had a chronic condition such as hypertension or diabetes mellitus. The majority of the participants (70.5%) had a family history of stretch marks. Conclusions This study showed that the prevalence of stretch marks was higher in females, younger participants, smokers, participants with a family history of stretch marks, and participants with a higher BMI and multiparity. More studies should be conducted to assess the correlations between these factors and the presence of stretch marks, and their influence on the quality of life of individuals.
RESUMO
Objective This study aimed to estimate and investigate the prevalence and the risk factors implicated in contact dermatitis among healthcare workers in the Al'Qassim region, Saudi Arabia, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology We conducted a cross-sectional survey among healthcare workers at hospitals in the Al'Qassim region. Data was collected using a standardized and validated Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire version 2002. We included 408 participants in the analysis. Results The majority of the respondents (66.7%) were females. The mean age of participants was 34 (SD: ±9) years. Most of the participants who reported contact dermatitis were nurses (58.6%). Direct patient care roles represent 78% of participants. Respondents who work 40-50 hours per week represent 61.5% of the sample. The most commonly recorded symptoms were dryness (92.9%), itchiness (50%), and redness (46.4%) of the skin. The most affected site was hand 93.5%. Hand cleanser was the commonest substance implicated in the worsening of the skin changes (59.2%). Protective glove material that worsens contact dermatitis, such as natural rubber/latex, represents 76% of responses. A significant association (p=0.001)was seen in the occurrence of contact dermatitis in those with a history of allergic eye symptoms (33.3%) and those without (58%). Participants with a mean age of 26.47 years were more prone to develop contact dermatitis (CI: 1.19-7.06; p=0.067). Pharmacists and interns had 3.69 and 4.90 times higher odds of having contact dermatitis (CI: 0.95-7.33; CI: 22.1; p=0.027; p=0.038, respectively). Those involved in patient education and research activities at work were 6.48 (p=0.017) and 20.51 (p=0.024) times likely to develop contact dermatitis (CI: 1.38-30.31; CI: 1.49-282.15, respectively). Conclusions We explored the prevalence and risk factors for occupational contact dermatitis among healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia. The prevalence of reported skin changes during the pandemic was 46.4%. Our study also showed that the risk factors of developing contact dermatitis include female gender, history of eye allergies, and young age group.
