Factors influencing skin and hair morbidities among college students in Coimbatore district

Abstract

Background: Skin diseases and conditions are a major health problem which plays a crucial role in emotional and psychological health of the individual. Objective: To find factors influencing skin and hair morbidities among college students in Coimbatore district. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2018 and June 2018 in Coimbatore district which is located in the northwestern part of Tamil Nadu. The study was carried out in six Arts and Science colleges in Coimbatore district. Convenient sampling technique was used to select the college in each taluk. The students in second year were included as participants for the study. Random sampling technique was used to select the participants on all the selected colleges. Sample size for the study was estimated at 384 and the data collection tool used was self-administered questionnaire. Height and weight of the subjects were measured by the principal investigator by using stadiometer and electronic weight machine. Results: Overall cumulative prevalence of skin morbidities among the subjects was 77.4% and hair morbidities was 82.7%. Age and body mass index (BMI) shows significant association with skin morbidity. Native place, place of residence and BMI shows significant association with hair morbidities. Conclusion: Overall prevalence of skin and hair morbidities were extensively high among college students in Coimbatore district and awareness has to be given to them regarding prevention and treatment practice for skin and hair morbidities.