BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is an increasingly prevalent chronic disease commonly treated with topical corticosteroids (TCS), though these agents are often misused. There is a need to explore the factors influencing non-adherence to TCS among psoriasis patients in the Philippines.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding TCS among Filipino patients with psoriasis.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 76 Filipino patients with psoriasis in a tertiary hospital using a constructed validated questionnaire.

RESULTS

Patient scores clustered at the upper end of the distribution, indicating a generally good level of KAP regarding TCS. Increasing age was associated with a lower level of knowledge while female respondents had a higher level of knowledge. Higher knowledge levels were associated with better patient attitude, and better patient attitude was associated with better practice.

CONCLUSION

Predictors of correct KAP regarding TCS are less likely influenced by sociodemographic and clinical factors; rather, these three domains significantly correlate with each other. Physicians can utilize these interrelationships by educating patients regarding their topical treatment to yield more positive attitudes regarding its efficacy and minimize their fear of side effects, which can motivate them to adhere to prescribed therapy.

Corticosteroids ; Adrenal Cortex Hormones ; Knowledge ; Attitude ; Psoriasis