Feelings of stigmatization in patients with rosacea

Background Rosacea is a chronic facial disease that may lead to feelings of stigmatization, which can negatively impact psychological and social well-being. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate different aspects of rosacea that could contribute to feelings of stigmatization. Methods An online survey of a representative sample of the adult population in the UK, France, Germany and US was conducted to identify patients with rosacea based on presence of three or more clinical features. Results Among the patients who completed the survey (n = 807), mean age at first sign/symptom of rosacea was 31.3 +/- 14.5 years; mean duration of disease was 102 +/- 119 months. One-third of patients reported feelings of stigmatization (FS; n = 275). Male patients were more likely to experience FS (49% vs. 37.2% in non-FS population; P = 0.0037). Those with FS were more likely to avoid social situations (54.2% vs. 2.0%, P < 1.00(E-10)) and had a higher rate of depression (36.7% vs. 21.1%, P < 1.00(E-10)). Conclusions Stigmatization is important in the daily lives of those with rosacea and should be taken into consideration in the management of these patients.