Objective:
This study aimed to study the major predisposing and aggravating factors of melasma and associated chronic diseases among the Saudi adult population.
Methods:
This cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia investigated melasma in adults, focusing on demographics, characteristics, treatment, predisposing and aggravating factors, and associated chronic diseases.
Results:
A total of 168 participants completed the survey. Most participants were female (96.4%), with a high prevalence in the 40-49 years age group (33.9%). Melasma was present for more than three years (43.8%). The centrofacial area was the most common site (61.3%). The most prominent aggravating factors for melasma were pregnancy (58.6%), sun exposure (38.3%), and use of oral contraceptives (14.8%). The most commonly associated chronic diseases were vitamin D deficiency (42.3%), diabetes mellitus type 2 (31%), and hypothyroidism (13.7%). Melasma treatment showed moderate improvement with 60.1% and no improvement with 29.1% of participants.
Conclusion:
In Saudi Arabia, melasma mainly affects women, with pregnancy, sun exposure, and oral contraceptives as key factors. This study also linked melasma with thyroid disorders. An association was found between melasma with vitamin D deficiency and diabetes mellitus type 2, which needs further research.
Key words: Melasma, aggravating, association, chronic diseases, Saudi Arabia.
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