Each year millions of dollars are spent on the pursuit of eradicating acne and with good reason. Acne is a condition which affects millions, some estimates indicating between 40 and 50 million people; with varying degrees and can leave deep physical scars and trauma as well as psychological effects that linger for years later. While acne is commonly believed to be a condition that only affects teens and young adults, in truth, various forms of acne strike individuals well into adulthood.
Acne is not only embarrassing and painful, but in many cases it can lead to other issues as well. Studies conducted to determine the impact of acne on both teens and adults have concluded that acne can result in a number of different issues such as:
· Decreased self-esteem
· Social withdrawal
· Feelings of depression
· Anger and frustration
· Higher rate of unemployment
Perhaps the most puzzling part of this condition occurs when it strikes adults who have previously had no experience with the skin disorder and are suddenly thrust into the midst of an embarrassing and painful health crisis. Statistics indicate that in the United States anywhere from 79% to 95% of teenagers suffer from acne. Between 40 to 54% of adults older than age 25 suffer from acne with an occurrence of acne in 3% to 12% of middle aged persons.
While these statistics are surprising, what is the most shocking is the fact that the incidence of acne in underdeveloped countries is often 0%. 2 How is it that the most advanced country in the world, with the best research and medical practices, has such a staggeringly high rate of acne incidences while underdeveloped countries around the world; which often rely on the United States for basic health care measures and assistance, do not suffer from acne at all?
Next: Theories on the Causes of Acne
