The Level of Knowledge and Attitudes of Students of USU FK 2017 for Stretch Marks

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 37 views

The Level of Knowledge and Attitudes of Students of USU FK 2017 for Stretch Marks

Introduction

Stretch marks are a common skin problem that affects a significant portion of the population, with an estimated 80% of people experiencing them in various forms. Women, particularly in the age group 5-50 years, are at a higher risk of developing this condition. The skin is a complex organ that covers an area of approximately 1.9 m² in adults, making it a vital aspect of our overall health. As such, it is essential to understand the level of knowledge and attitudes of students, especially from the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra (FK USU) for the class of 2017, regarding stretch marks.

Background

The skin is a dynamic organ that undergoes various changes throughout our lives. Stretch marks are a result of skin atrophy due to excessive stretching, which can occur due to various factors such as rapid weight gain, pregnancy, or hormonal changes. The prevalence of stretch marks is high, and it is essential to understand how students perceive and respond to this condition. This study aims to evaluate the level of knowledge and attitudes of USU FK students in the 2017 class of stretch marks based on gender and the existence of stretch marks in them.

Research Purposes

The primary objective of this study is to assess the level of knowledge and attitudes of USU FK students in the 2017 class regarding stretch marks. The study also aims to identify any differences in knowledge and attitudes based on gender and the existence of stretch marks in the students.

Methodology

This study employed a descriptive approach and used a cross-sectional design. The sampling technique used was non-probability sampling with the Consecutive Sampling method. Data was collected through online questionnaires that were distributed using Google Form. The assessment was carried out using the Guttman scale and the Likert scale, before finally the data collected was tabulated for further analysis.

Results

The results of the study showed that the level of knowledge of students was quite good. Specifically, 96.4% of women have good knowledge, while 3.6% are in sufficient category. On the other hand, 91.7% of men also have a good level of knowledge, and 8.3% in the category sufficient.

Student attitude levels show broader variations. As many as 55.4% of women have a good attitude, while 44.6% are in adequate category. For male students, only 31.9% have a good attitude, 66.7% are sufficient, and 1.4% are in the lack of category.

Regarding the existence of stretch marks, the results show that 95.3% of students who have stretch marks have good knowledge, while 4.7% in sufficient categories. For those who do not have a stretch marks, 92.9% show a good level of knowledge, with 7.1% in the category sufficient.

The attitude towards stretch marks also varies. Among those who have stretch marks, 49.4% show good attitude and 50.6% enough. However, among those who do not have stretch marks, only 38.6% have a good attitude, 60% enough, and 1.4% less.

Conclusion

Overall, the majority of USU FK students in 2017 show a good level of knowledge about stretch marks, which is 94.2%. However, the majority level of their attitude is in the category of sufficient, reaching 54.8%. This shows that despite their good knowledge, the attitude that develops towards stretch marks still requires more attention. Increased education and understanding of this problem is important to help students deal with the skin condition more positively.

Implications

The findings of this study have several implications for educational institutions. Firstly, it highlights the need for health education that is not only focused on medical knowledge but also positive attitudes and behaviors towards dermatological issues such as stretch marks. Secondly, it emphasizes the importance of addressing the attitudes and behaviors of students towards stretch marks, as this can have a significant impact on their overall health and well-being.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Educational institutions should emphasize health education that is not only focused on medical knowledge but also positive attitudes and behaviors towards dermatological issues such as stretch marks.
Students should be encouraged to develop a positive attitude towards stretch marks, and to understand the importance of maintaining good skin health.
Further research is needed to explore the factors that influence the development of attitudes towards stretch marks, and to identify effective strategies for promoting positive attitudes and behaviors.

Limitations

This study has several limitations that should be acknowledged. Firstly, the study used a cross-sectional design, which may not be representative of the entire population of USU FK students. Secondly, the study relied on self-reported data, which may be subject to biases and limitations. Finally, the study did not explore the factors that influence the development of attitudes towards stretch marks, which is an important area for further research.

Future Directions

This study provides a foundation for further research on the level of knowledge and attitudes of students towards stretch marks. Future studies could explore the factors that influence the development of attitudes towards stretch marks, and identify effective strategies for promoting positive attitudes and behaviors. Additionally, further research could investigate the impact of health education on the level of knowledge and attitudes of students towards stretch marks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Stretch Marks and Student Attitudes

Q: What are stretch marks?

A: Stretch marks are a common skin problem that occurs when the skin is stretched beyond its limits, causing the skin to lose its elasticity and leading to the formation of scars.

Q: How common are stretch marks?

A: Stretch marks are estimated to affect approximately 80% of the population, with women being more likely to experience them, especially in the age group 5-50 years.

Q: What are the causes of stretch marks?

A: The causes of stretch marks include rapid weight gain, pregnancy, hormonal changes, and genetics.

Q: What is the significance of this study?

A: This study aims to evaluate the level of knowledge and attitudes of USU FK students in the 2017 class regarding stretch marks, with a focus on identifying any differences based on gender and the existence of stretch marks in the students.

Q: What were the findings of the study?

A: The study found that the majority of USU FK students in 2017 showed a good level of knowledge about stretch marks, with 94.2% of students having good knowledge. However, the majority level of their attitude was in the category of sufficient, reaching 54.8%.

Q: What are the implications of the study?

A: The study highlights the need for health education that is not only focused on medical knowledge but also positive attitudes and behaviors towards dermatological issues such as stretch marks.

Q: What are the recommendations of the study?

A: The study recommends that educational institutions emphasize health education that is not only focused on medical knowledge but also positive attitudes and behaviors towards dermatological issues such as stretch marks.

Q: What are the limitations of the study?

A: The study has several limitations, including the use of a cross-sectional design, reliance on self-reported data, and the lack of exploration of the factors that influence the development of attitudes towards stretch marks.

Q: What are the future directions of the study?

A: The study provides a foundation for further research on the level of knowledge and attitudes of students towards stretch marks, with potential areas for investigation including the factors that influence the development of attitudes towards stretch marks and the impact of health education on the level of knowledge and attitudes of students.

Q: What can students do to prevent or reduce the appearance of stretch marks?

A: Students can take several steps to prevent or reduce the appearance of stretch marks, including maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding rapid weight gain, and using moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated and supple.

Q: What can educational institutions do to promote positive attitudes and behaviors towards stretch marks?

A: Educational institutions can promote positive attitudes and behaviors towards stretch marks by incorporating health education into their curricula, providing resources and support for students who are experiencing stretch marks, and encouraging students to develop a positive attitude towards their skin health.

Q: What are the benefits of promoting positive attitudes and behaviors towards stretch marks?

A: Promoting positive attitudes and behaviors towards stretch marks can have several benefits, including improved self-esteem, reduced anxiety and stress, and a more positive body image.