ABSTRACT

Background:

The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of psoriasis and vitiligo in a selected region of Turkey. Also the consumption of smoking and alcohol was recorded.

Material and Methods:

8959 questionnaires regarding symptoms of the diseases in question were filled out.

Results:

The prevalence of psoriasis and vitiligo was recorded as 0.5% in each. Male and female subjects who smoked (14/23 and 4/21 respectively), were found to have psoriasis more frequently than non-smokers (965/4263 and 181/4197) (p=0.003 and p=0.004 respectively). Male subjects consuming alcohol were found to have psoriasis more frequently than non-consumers (6/23 psoriatic; 192/4263 non-psoriatic) (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

Determining the epidemiological properties of skin diseases correctly will no doubt lead to improvements in health policies and treatment strategies.