Prevalence of Skin Diseases Among Hostellers Attending the Tertiary Care Hospital

The study conducted on 507 hostellers at the Government Medical College, Pudukottai, found that pityriasis capitis was the most prevalent skin disease, followed by acne vulgaris (54.83%) and pediculosis capitis (25.64%). Pityriasis capitis was more common in men, particularly those with infrequent head baths and high sun exposure. Acne vulgaris affected both genders equally and was associated with infrequent face washing, lack of sunscreen use, and junk food consumption. Periorbital melanosis was more common in females and linked to stress, sleep deprivation, and cosmetic use. The study concluded that proper hygiene, adequate sleep, and self-care could reduce the incidence of these skin diseases.