Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Melasma among Medical College Students in Sulaymaniyah City: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Melasma is a skin condition characterized by patches of brown discoloration that appear on sun-exposed areas, most commonly the face. Sun-light exposure and genetic predisposition are the two main causes of melasma. Aim of this Study: The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of melasma among medical students in Sulaymaniyah city and potential risk factors associated with its development. Methods: A cross-sectional study has been conducted in Sulaymaniyah city using a questionnaire. The sampling method was non-random convenience sampling via a self-administrative questionnaire that consisted of 15 questions, answered by 502 students. Results and Conclusion: A total of 502 participants answered a questionnaire, with the prevalence of melasma found to be 3.6%. The female-to-male ratio was 2:1, and a positive family history of melasma was reported in 55.6% of cases with melasma. Malar distribution was the most common pattern of melasma, and no significant correlation was found between melasma and sunlight expo-sure, thyroid disorders, or oral contraceptive pill use. However, a significant relationship was found between family history and the development of melasma, with a p-value of 0.034.