Abstract

Introduction: Skin diseases like scabies, ringworm, and acne are prevalent public health concerns in Cameroon and across Africa affecting African populations, yet healthcare access remains limited. Traditional medicine (TM) is a primary recourse for management.1 This study evaluated Yaoundé residents’ knowledge of both disease recognition and traditional treatments for five dermatoses: tartar (pityriasis versicolor), ringworm (tinea), scabies, acne, and diaper rash. Objective: To assess the knowledge of the population of the city of Yaoundé regarding the community management of 5 common dermatoses. Methodology: A cross-sectional KAP survey was conducted among 205 adults recruited from eight formal markets in Yaoundé (February–May 2024). Participants were included if they had experience with at least one of the five dermatoses and a written informed consent was obtained prior to participation. Knowledge was assessed via a structured questionnaire, with levels categorized as poor (<25% correct), insufficient (25–50%), average (50–85%), or good (>85%). The data were analyzed using SPSS 26. Results: The median age was 34 years, with a predominance of women (60.49%) and a M/F sex ratio of 0.65. Participants’ knowledge levels of the 5 dermatosis varied: ringworm (80%), diaper rash (47%), tartar (45%), acne (37%), and scabies (31%). Only 27.9% could identify traditional remedies for ringworm; 46.8% knew treatments for diaper rash. Conclusion: Community knowledge about these dermatoses is uneven, often based on personal experience and traditional knowledge. These findings support the need for health education and validation of effective traditional remedies.

Keywords

knowledge, dermatoses, traditional medicine, community management, Yaoundé