Quality of Life and Psychological Distress among Vitiligo Patients Attending Public Dermatology Clinics in Sana’a, Yemen
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65693/j21umas.2026.v5i1.420Keywords:
Vitiligo, Quality of Life, Psychological Distress, DLQI, Yemen.Abstract
Introduction: Vitiligo is a chronic depigmenting disorder associated with a significant
psychosocial burden. Beyond cosmetic disfigurement, vitiligo may negatively influence
quality of life (QoL), treatment adherence, and psychological well-being, particularly in
low-resource settings such as Yemen.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the quality of life and psychological distress among patients with vitiligo attending public dermatology clinics in Sana’a, Yemen.
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2023 and May 2024 in three public hospitals in Sana’a. Patients with vitiligo aged 13-40 years were consecutively recruited. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, the Arabic
version of the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.
Results: A total of 118 patients participated. Quality of life impairment (DLQI ≥2) was
observed in 91.5% of patients, with a mean DLQI score of 8.35 ± 6.23. Depression, anxiety, and stress were reported in 33.1%, 33.9%, and 38.1% of patients, respectively. Marital status and education level were significantly associated with QoL impairment.
Conclusion: Vitiligo imposes a substantial psychosocial burden on Yemeni patients.
Integrating psychological assessment and support into dermatological care is essential to
improve patient outcomes.
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