Determining the quality of life of people with alopecia areata and associated factors in tertiary hospitals in the capital city of Malaysia

Introduction: Alopecia areata (AA) is a disabling hair disorder which usually begins in teenage years. Worldwide prevalence is 0.1-0.2%, with no data of prevalence in Malaysia. The aim of this study was to determine the quality of life of people with AA and associated factors in major tertiary hospitals in the capital city of Malaysia. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at three Dermatology Outpatient Clinics in three tertiary hospitals in the capital city of Malaysia over one year starting September 2021. A validated questionnaire incorporating the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) was used. A total of 150 participants with AA were successfully recruited. Results: The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) mean score was 28.9 with those scoring 29 and above classified as having a poor quality of life and those scoring 28 or less as having a good quality of life. Univariate and bivariate analysis showed that marital status and presence of diabetes was significantly associated with a poorer quality of life. In multivariate analysis, it was found that those who were not married had 1.39 higher odds of having poor quality of life as compared to those who were married (95% CI 1.23-1.65, p=0.04). It was also found that those with diabetes had 2.99 higher odds of having poor quality of life (95% CI 1.83-4.12, p=0.02). Conclusion: In conclusion, participants with AA who weren’t married and with diabetes had poor quality of life. These findings can help physicians build on the body of literature in managing AA.

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