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@article{205295,
        author = {Dr Manju Thomas and AHMAD K. HAMAD},
        title = {KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND MISUSE OF TOPICAL CORTICOSTEROID AMONG ADULTS IN DARESSALAAM, TANZANIA.},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {1},
        pages = {6615-6626},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=205295},
        abstract = {Background: Topical corticosteroids are commonly used for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions. However, their misuse, particularly for cosmetic purposes such as skin lightening and treatment of dark spots, has become a growing public health concern. Misuse may lead to adverse effects including acne, skin discoloration, skin thinning, and steroid dependence. Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the misuse of topical corticosteroids among adults in Mchikichini Ward, Ilala District, Tanzania, in 2025.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 adults aged 18–45 years residing in Mchikichini Ward. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. The study assessed participants’ knowledge of topical corticosteroids, attitudes toward their use, and practices related to obtaining and using these products. Results: Among the 200 participants, 86.0% had heard about medicated skin creams, but only 28.0% were aware of their potential side effects. Friends/family (31.5%) and social media (30.0%) were the main sources of information. More than half (55.0%) did not know the conditions treated by these creams, and only 19.5% knew that some corticosteroid creams should be discontinued gradually. Regarding attitudes, 51.0% believed that using medicated creams without a prescription was unsafe, while many participants remained uncertain about regulation and safe use. In practice, the most common reasons for use were skin lightening (39.5%) and treatment of dark spots (35.5%). Most creams were obtained from pharmacies without prescription (39.5%) or cosmetic shops (28.5%). Only 12.0% read instructions before use, and 42.5% reported experiencing side effects.
Conclusion: The study revealed insufficient knowledge, mixed attitudes, and unsafe practices regarding topical corticosteroid use among adults in Mchikichini Ward. Easy accessibility, reliance on informal information sources, and cosmetic motivations contribute to misuse. Public health education, stricter regulation of corticosteroid sales, and improved community awareness are recommended to promote safe and appropriate use.},
        keywords = {},
        month = {June},
        }