The Impact of Psychosocial Stress on Quality of Life in Saudi Arabian Patients with Alopecia Areata

Abstract

Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disorder that causes non-scaring hair loss, and common psychiatric comorbidities such as depression and anxiety are often experienced among these patients. The underlying causes of this disorder, including environmental factors, immune responses, autoimmune reactions, and genetic predisposition, are still debated. This condition affects approximately 0.2% of the global population and has no specific gender preference, with an average onset age of 33 years. To assess the psychosocial impact on quality of life in individuals with alopecia areata in Saudi Arabia

Methodology: This study employed a cross-sectional questionnaire survey among Alopecia areata patients, targeting both Saudi and non-Saudi participants of both genders, from October 2023 – March 2024. The sample size is determined to be 384 participants based on a confidence level of 95%. By investigating the psychological impact of AA in Saudi Arabia.

Results: The study included 398 participants, 65.8% of them were females. 79.90% of individuals are at low risk of psychological stress due to their condition affecting their QoL, 16.60% are at moderate risk, and 3.50% are at high risk. The majority of respondents (74.1%) indicated that alopecia areata may have psychological effects on them. 37.7% of respondents reported feelings of depression as a result of alopecia areata, while 38.7% reported experiencing anxiety. Additionally, 69.3% of respondents expressed feeling ashamed in front of others due to their condition.

Conclusion: In conclusion, alopecia areata causes psychological stress which affects quality of life of patients. Younger individuals, those who are single or divorced, and patients with higher levels of education are at higher risk of psychological stress of alopecia areata.