Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Vitiligo in Egyptian and Palestinian Communities: A Cross-Sectional Study

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Saleh, and 10 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-5666970/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Published Journal Publication published 14 Apr, 2025 Read the published version in BMC Public Health → Version 1 posted 7 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Background: Vitiligo is an acquired dermatological condition characterized by localized skin depigmentation. It affects 0.5% to 2% of the population, impacting individuals across various ages, races, and genders. The psychosocial effects of Vitiligo can significantly influence quality of life, particularly in people with darker skin tones, where the contrast of lesions is more pronounced. Objectives: This study evaluated public knowledge, attitudes, and misconceptions regarding Vitiligo in Egypt and Palestine, focusing on specific demographic Variations and the potential need for improved community engagement and education. Method: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1,045 participants from Egypt and 450 participants from the West Bank. An online self-administered questionnaire was developed using Google Forms. The eligibility criteria for participation included Egyptian and Palestinian citizens residing in the West Bank. Individuals under 18 years or outside the designated study settings were excluded from participation. This study was conducted from April 2024 to August 2024. Results: The analysis indicated that 62.8% of participants demonstrated adequate knowledge of Vitiligo; however, only 87.6% exhibited favorable attitudes toward the condition. The study revealed significant variations in knowledge and attitudes based on gender, occupation, previous health professional experience, and social status. Economic level and geographic location. Educational level was found to have a considerable impact on attitudes. Multiple linear regression analysis identified several significant predictors of Knowledge and attitude scores included male gender, age categories of 18 to 25 and over 50, marital status, occupation in a health profession, personal experience with Vitiligo, prior awareness of the condition, and the attitude score itself. This explained 30.2% of the variance in knowledge scores and 28.1% in attitude ratings. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into public awareness and perceptions of Vitiligo in Egypt and Palestine. A significant proportion of the participants demonstrated adequate awareness of the condition; however, favorable opinions appeared less prevalent. Notable discrepancies were observed among the various demographic characteristics, highlighting the need for targeted initiatives, such as media campaigns and school-based education, aimed at addressing information gaps and improving public perception. Vitiligo awareness attitudes Middle East autoimmune disorders skin pigmentation Egypt Palestine Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 1. Introduction Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition characterized by depigmented lesions resulting from the autoimmune destruction of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin ( 1 ). This disorder affects individuals of all ages, races, and sexes, with a global prevalence of 0.5–2% ( 2 ). While Vitiligo is non-contagious and non-life-threatening, it can significantly affect individuals' psychological well-being and quality of life, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults ( 3 ). This condition is more noticeable in individuals with darker skin tones, often leading to heightened visibility and associated psychosocial challenges ( 4 ). Vitiligo is broadly classified into two types: non-segmental and segmental. Non-segmental Vitiligo, the more common variant, includes generalized and acrofacial subtypes, whereas segmental Vitiligo typically presents before the age of 20 years and has a more favorable prognosis ( 5 ). Although the exact etiology remains unclear, a combination of genetic, immunological, and environmental factors is believed to contribute to its development ( 6 ). Potential triggers such as sunburn, stress, trauma, and hormonal changes may exacerbate the condition, but these factors likely interact with the underlying predispositions ( 7 ). The psychosocial impact of Vitiligo is profound, particularly in regions where cultural stigma and misconceptions persist. In some societies, individuals with Vitiligo may face social exclusion or be perceived as "outsiders," leading to anxiety, shame, and reduced self-confidence ( 8 , 9 ). Despite its prevalence, public understanding of Vitiligo remains limited, with misconceptions about its contagiousness or causes often prevailing ( 10 ). Addressing these knowledge gaps through public education is critical for improving societal attitudes and the well-being of affected individuals. Studies on Vitiligo have been conducted in various regions, focusing on different aspects of the condition. In Western countries, Bibeau et al. investigated the prevalence of Vitiligo and its impact on the quality of life among adults in Europe, Japan, and the USA ( 11 ). In India and Thailand, Asati et al. and Juntongjin et al. conducted cross-sectional surveys to assess public knowledge and attitudes toward Vitiligo ( 12 , 13 ). Similarly, in China, research has explored awareness and treatment preferences among patients with Vitiligo ( 14 ), while in Turkey, studies have evaluated patients' knowledge, opinions, and attitudes regarding the condition ( 15 ). In the Middle East, studies on public knowledge of and attitudes toward Vitiligo are limited. Research in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Northern Ethiopia has revealed varying levels of awareness and persistent misconceptions despite generally supportive attitudes ( 16 – 19 ). For instance, studies in Saudi Arabia found that while attitudes toward individuals with Vitiligo were positive, understanding the nature of the condition was often deficient ( 18 , 20 ). Similarly, research in Northern Ethiopia highlighted that higher levels of knowledge were associated with older age, urban residence, and higher education ( 19 ). These findings underscore the need for targeted public education initiatives to dispel myths and foster inclusivity. Due to limited research on Vitiligo in the Middle East, this study represents one of the first efforts to examine public knowledge and attitudes toward Vitiligo in Egypt and Palestine. By assessing perceptions and addressing misconceptions, this research aims to challenge stereotypes, improve societal understanding, and ultimately enhance the quality of life of individuals living with Vitiligo. 2. Methods 2.1. Study design We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess public knowledge and attitudes toward Vitiligo among individuals in Egypt and Palestine. Utilizing a In a self-administered online questionnaire, we collected data to gain insights into respondents' demographic characteristics, knowledge levels, and attitudes concerning Vitiligo. 2.2. Study Setting We conducted the study across two primary regions, Egypt and Palestine. Egypt, with a population of approximately 100 million, and Palestine, specifically the West Bank, with an estimated population of 5 million, provide diverse cultural contexts for investigating public perceptions of Vitiligo. The online nature of the study allowed participants from various urban, suburban, and rural areas to contribute, ensuring a broad representation of vitiligo perspectives. 2.3. Study Population This study targeted Egyptians and Palestinians over 18 as the primary population for the survey. A total of 1,102 Egyptian and 527 Palestinian participants were included. The sampling was conducted through social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp to reach a broad audience. 2.4. Eligibility Criteria The eligibility criteria for this study included participants 18 years or older residing in Egypt or Palestine, with the requirement that they have access to the Internet and the capability to complete the online questionnaire. Individuals under 18 years of age and those who did not disclose their country of origin were excluded from this study. This selection process ensured that the study focused exclusively on the adult population, thereby facilitating the collection of pertinent data regarding their understanding and attitudes toward Vitiligo. Although Vitiligo affects all age groups, minors were excluded from this study because the Ethics Committees in Egypt and Palestine required informed consent from parents before enrollment in the study, which was inapplicable owing to the online nature of the questionnaire. 2.5. Sample size The minimum required sample size was 385 from the East Bank and 770 from Egypt, calculated using the OpenEpi online calculator, assuming that the population size of Egypt was 100,000,000, the population size of Palestinians in the West Bank was 5,000,000, a 5% margin of error, a 95% confidence interval, and 50% as the response distribution. 2.5. Data Collection We collected data between April 15, 2024, and August 20, 2024, using a self-administered questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. The questionnaire was adapted from a study conducted by Al-Shobaili et al. (2015). It was created by the researchers and validated by two dermatologists ( 21 ). The questionnaire included four sections. The first section addressed the participants' sociodemographic characteristics, including age group, gender, educational level, paternal educational level, maternal educational level, marital status, family income, employment status, location distribution, and whether they had a health-related profession. The second section was designed to capture participants' previous exposure to Vitiligo using four questions: whether they had heard of Vitiligo, had been diagnosed with Vitiligo, had a partner diagnosed with Vitiligo, or lived with someone diagnosed with Vitiligo. The third section included 18 questions to assess the participant's knowledge of the disease, with "Yes," "Maybe," and "No" answers. These included questions about the nature of the disease, including whether it was contagious, hereditary, autoimmune, hygiene-related, systemic, food-related, lethal, triggered by psychological distress, the probability of leading to death, whether there is a treatment for Vitiligo, and whether it is magic or witchery. Finally, the fourth section assessed participants' attitudes toward Vitiligo and constituted nine statements to evaluate their agreement with them. These included participants' attitudes toward vitiligo patients in situations such as sharing food, becoming friends, shaking hands, hiring decisions, the probability of divorce occurring if the partner was diagnosed with Vitiligo, and their intimate relationships with others. Knowledge score In the "knowledge" section, one point was given for a correct response to a question, whereas an incorrect answer and a " Maybe " answer were given zero points. The aggregate of the individual scores was used to calculate the total score, which ranged from 0 to 18. Statistical comparisons were conducted using the percentage of each participant's total knowledge score. According to Tsadik et al. (2020 ( 19 ), "sufficient knowledge" was defined as scores greater than or equal to the median score; conversely, "insufficient knowledge" was defined as scores below the median level. The knowledge score, consisting of 18 items, demonstrated good internal consistency with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.783. Attitude score For every participant, the percentage of the total attitude score was calculated and used for statistical comparison. People were classified as having a "positive" or a "negative attitude." The sum of the participants' answers in the attitude score varied from − 8 to 8. Participants who scored above zero had a positive attitude, whereas those who scored below zero had a negative attitude. The attitude score, comprising eight items, showed strong reliability with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.808. 2.6. Data Analysis An Excel spreadsheet was used to extract data from the electronic questionnaire. Subsequently, Jamovi ( version 2.5 ) [Computer Software] was used for data analysis. Frequent distributions and percentages were employed for categorical variables, whereas central tendency and dispersion measures were used for continuous variables. Independent t-test for two-group comparisons and one-way ANOVA for Nonparametric data (Kruskal-Wallis test) for more than two comparison groups were utilized to examine any potential associations between the variables under comparison and calculate the effect size. Differences were considered statistically significant at a p-value of 0.05. All data have been pre-checked, and none followed a normal distribution. The test results, including normality assessments, are provided in the supplementary file. 2.7 Ethical Approval and Consent Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Mansoura, Egypt (IRB No.: R.24.03.2549), and the Faculty of Medicine at Al-Quds University, Jerusalem (IRB No.: 383/REC/2024). All participants signed an informed consent form before participating in this study. 3. Results 3.1. Sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents The study on knowledge of and attitudes toward Vitiligo among Egyptian and Palestinian communities involved 1,535 respondents, primarily female (72.11%) and younger than 35 (89.83%). Most participants resided in urban areas (58.95%) and held at least a bachelor's degree (79.86%), with similar educational attainment among their parents (54.13% paternal and 53% maternal education levels at the bachelor's or diploma level). Singles accounted for 75.96% of the population, and students comprised the largest occupational group (52.76%), followed by employed individuals (27.29%) and unemployed participants (19.95%). About 58.5% had a health-related professional background, while only 14.9% belonged to higher-income groups (above L.E. 6,000) (Table 1 ). Table 1 Study participants' background characteristics and knowledge and attitude scores based on some selected characteristics (n = 1535). Knowledge Attitude Scores N Mean Median SD IQR P-value Effect size N Mean Median SD IQR P-value Effect size Age group (years) 50 37 12.41 13 3.05 4 37 4.49 5 2.66 3 Sex female 1107 11.97 13 3.12 3 < .001 0.0155 1107 5.18 6 3.09 4 < .001 0.0174 male 428 10.66 12 4.26 5 428 4.23 5 3.44 5 Status single 1166 11.67 12 3.48 4 0.173 0.00121 1166 5.15 6 3.11 4 < .001 0.01983 not-single 369 11.39 12 3.65 4 369 4.16 5 3.43 5 Income level L.E 6000–12000 760 11.7 12 3.37 4 0.012 0.00578 760 4.79 6 3.32 5 < .001 0.01043 Less than L.E 6000 545 11.25 12 3.83 4 545 4.75 6 3.2 5 More than L.E. 6000 230 12.14 13 3.13 3 230 5.69 6 2.78 3 Location Rural 630 11.45 12 3.63 4 0.177 0.00119 630 4.53 5 3.31 4 < .001 0.01245 Urban 905 11.72 13 3.44 4 905 5.18 6 3.13 4 Occupation Unemployed 306 11.13 12 3.39 4 < .001 0.0111 306 4.03 5 3.7 5 < .001 0.0179 Employed 419 11.85 13 3.74 3 419 4.89 6 3.07 4 Student 810 11.66 12 3.44 4 810 5.26 6 3.03 4 Health Professional Yes 898 12.22 13 3.21 3 < .001 0.0481 898 5.19 6 3.04 4 < .001 0.00953 No 637 10.74 12 3.75 4 637 4.52 5 3.42 5 3.2. The Influence of Sociodemographic Characteristics on Knowledge and Attitude Scores A total of 1535 individuals filled out the self-administered online questionnaire: 1045 (68%) Egyptian and 490(32%) Palestinian. The average and standard deviation of knowledge and attitude scores of the total sample were 11.61 ± 3.52 and 4.91 ± 3.22, respectively. Nine hundred sixty-four, or about two-thirds of the population (62.8%), showed sufficient knowledge about Vitiligo. Only 12% of participants had negative attitude scores (Fig. 1 ) . Females represented 72.11% of our sample and reported significantly higher knowledge and attitude scores ( p < 0.001). Most participants were younger than 35 years of age (89.83%). According to the Kruskal-Wallis test, age did not significantly affect the attitude or knowledge scores. More than half of the population (58.95%) lived in urban areas. The geographic area did not significantly affect knowledge scores but was significantly associated with higher attitude scores ( p < 0.001 ). Previous health professions represented 58.5% of the study population and had significantly higher attitudes and knowledge scores ( p < 0.001). The proportion of singles was 75.96% of the total population and was significantly associated with higher attitude scores ( p < 0.001), whereas it had no impact on knowledge ( p = 0.173 ). Regarding occupation, employed (27.29%) had significantly higher knowledge scores ( p < 0.001), whereas students (52.76%) had significantly higher attitude scores. Higher income levels represented only 14.9% of the participants and were associated with significantly higher knowledge and attitude scores ( p < 0.001) ( Table 1 ). The majority had a bachelor's degree (79.86%), and paternal and maternal education had a bachelor's degree or diploma (54.13% and 53%, respectively). Our results showed significant differences between the different groups of personal, paternal, and maternal education levels (P-value < 0.001) (Table 2 ). Table 2 Health study of participants' personal, paternal, and maternal education levels and their influence on their knowledge and attitude scores (n = 1535). Knowledge Attitude Scores N Mean Median SD IQR P-value Effect size N Mean Median SD IQR P-value Effect size Education level High school 170 10.05 11 3.79 5 < .001 0.0281 170 3.28 4 3.81 6 < .001 0.0281 Bachelor's degree/diploma 1226 11.77 12.5 3.42 3 1226 5.18 6 3.01 4 Higher education 139 12.08 13 3.56 5 139 4.57 6 3.58 5 Paternal education level High school 516 11.06 12 3.76 5 < .001 0.0122 516 4.28 5 3.34 4.25 < .001 0.0285 Bachelor's degree/diploma 831 11.92 13 3.38 3 831 5.15 6 3.12 4 Higher education 188 11.73 12 3.26 4 188 5.6 6 3.03 4 Maternal education level High school 606 11.05 12 3.74 4.75 < .001 0.0166 606 11.05 12 3.74 4.75 < .001 0.0298 Bachelor's degree/diploma 814 11.95 13 3.38 3 814 11.95 13 3.38 3 Higher education 115 12.04 13 2.96 4 115 12.04 13 2.96 4 3.3. The Influence of Previous Exposure to Vitiligo on Knowledge and Attitude Scores Almost 94% of the study population had heard of Vitiligo, and only 4.4% had the disease. Table 3 shows a significant association between having Vitiligo, being married to a partner with Vitiligo, having heard of Vitiligo, and having higher knowledge and attitude scores ( p < 0.001). Table 3 Health study of participants' personal, paternal, and maternal education levels and their influence on their knowledge and attitude scores (n = 1535). Knowledge Attitude Scores N Mean Median SD IQR P-value Effect size N Mean Median SD IQR P-value Effect size The participant lives with a patient with Vitiligo. No 1425 11.59 12 3.54 4 0.492 3.07E-04 1425 4.96 6 3.14 4 0.525 2.64E-04 Yes 110 11.85 13 3.25 4 110 4.35 6 4.04 6 The participant's partner has Vitiligo. With no partner 780 11.67 12 3.41 4 < .001 0.0115 780 5.3 6 2.87 4 < .001 0.0219 Yes 47 9.6 10 3.7 6 47 1.85 2 4.47 6.5 No 708 11.67 13 3.59 4 708 4.69 6 3.36 5 Participant has Vitiligo No 1466 11.72 13 3.5 4 < .001 0.0263 1466 5.09 6 3.06 4 < .001 0.0396 Yes 69 9.26 9 3.23 5 69 1.14 0 4.11 6 The participant has heard of Vitiligo. Yes 1444 11.89 13 3.17 3 < .001 0.0491 1444 5.13 6 3.06 4 < .001 0.0504 No 91 7.12 8 5.33 11 91 1.53 1 3.79 5.5 3.3. Regression Analysis Estimated Independent Predictors of Knowledge and Attitude Scores The results of the multiple linear regression analysis with the knowledge score as the criterion variable revealed the following significant predictors: ( 1 ) Male sex (estimate = − 0.81, p < 0.001); ( 2 ) age between 18 and 15 years and older than 50 years (estimate = 1.8, p = 0.001); ( 3 ) health profession (estimate = 1.35, p < 0.001); ( 4 ) participant having vitiligo (estimate = − 1.19, p = 0.006); ( 5 ) having heard of vitiligo (estimate = 3.17, p < 0.001); ( 6 ) family member with vitiligo (estimate = 0.8837, p = 0.006); ( 7 ) bachelor’s degree or diploma holders (estimate = -1.8142, p = 0.018); ( 8 ) high school education (estimate = -2.2885, p = 0.003); and ( 9 ) attitude score (estimate = 0.36, p < 0.001). The model explained 30.2% of the variance in the knowledge scores, and the F-test validated the fitness (F-statistic: 23.2, 28, and 1502 degrees of freedom, p < 0.001) ( Supplementary material) . The results of the multiple linear regression analysis with attitude score as the criterion variable revealed the following significant predictors: ( 1 ) ages between 26–35 years and 18–25 years (estimate = -0.7035, p = 0.005), ( 2 ) living in urban areas (estimate = 0.3344, p = 0.023), ( 3 ) bachelor's degree or diploma holders (estimate = 1.4157, p = 0.046), ( 4 ) participant having Vitiligo (estimate = − 2.24, p < 0.001), ( 5 ) having heard of vitiligo (estimate = 1.71, p < 0.001), ( 5 ) partner with Vitiligo (estimate = -0.9863, p = 0.029), and ( 6 ) knowledge score (estimate = 0.31, p < 0.001). The model explained 28.1% of the variance in the attitude scores, and the F-test validated the fitness (F-statistic: 21 on 28 and 1506 degrees of freedom, p < 0.001) ( Figs. 2 – 6 ) ( supplementary material) . 3.4. Participants Responses to the Questions That Build Up the Knowledge and Attitude Scores According to our results, 85% of patients denied the disease, and only 5.9% reported that Vitiligo is contagious. Twenty-eight percent (20.8%) of the patients had an autoimmune etiology. Over one-third (35,6%) denied that Vitiligo affects patients' social lives, and about one-fourth (25.3%) refused to believe that Vitiligo was exaggerated by exposure to psychological stress. Moreover, when asked about the roles of magic and witchery, only 4.6% thought these could be triggering factors. For more details regarding the participants' answers to questions assessing the knowledge score, refer to the Supplementary material . Regarding participants' attitudes toward Vitiligo, 87.5% disagreed with the statement, "I would divorce my partner if they were diagnosed with vitiligo," and 83.8% agreed with the statement, "I would hire a vitiligo patient". When asked about intimate relationships, only 9.9% agreed that Vitiligo affected them. Additionally, 24.3% disagreed with the statement, "I would marry a vitiligo patient," and only 5.7% and 7.5% refused to shake hands and eat food prepared by vitiligo patients, respectively. For more details regarding participants' extent of agreement with statements assessing attitude scores, refer to Table 4 . Table 4 Response of the participants to attitude questions about Vitiligo I would hire a vitiligo patient (%) No 91 (5.9) Yes 1286 (83.8) I would shake hands with a vitiligo patient (%) No 88 (5.7) Yes 1339 (87.2) I would become a friend with a vitiligo patient (%) No 68 (4.4) Yes 1348 (87.8) I would eat food prepared by a vitiligo patient (%) No 115 (7.5) Yes 1243 (81.0) I would marry a vitiligo patient (%) No 373 (24.3) Yes 598 (39.0) I would marry a family member who has Vitiligo (%) No 354 (23.1) Yes 645 (42.0) My intimate relationship would be affected by my partner's vitiligo diagnosis (%) No 1049 (68.3) Yes 152 ( 9.9) I would want to divorce if my partner got diagnosed with Vitiligo (%) No 1343 (87.5) Yes 70 (4.6) 3.5 Sociocultural Influences on Knowledge and Attitude Toward Vitiligo Sociocultural factors, including educational systems, healthcare accessibility, and prevalent cultural beliefs in Egypt and Palestine, may influence regional differences in public knowledge and attitudes toward Vitiligo. Our sample's high proportion of urban, educated respondents suggests a generally favorable awareness of Vitiligo. However, misconceptions about its etiology and impact on social interactions may reflect deeper cultural and historical perceptions of skin diseases. Traditional beliefs about skin conditions, stigma, and access to dermatological care may shape public attitudes in some communities. Additionally, variations in public health initiatives and media representation of Vitiligo could contribute to the differences in awareness levels between the two populations. Future research should explore how these sociocultural aspects influence perceptions and whether targeted awareness campaigns can effectively address specific misconceptions. 4. Discussion Vitiligo is a chronic depigmenting autoimmune skin disorder with an overall prevalence of 3% in the Middle East and Africa ( 22 ). Its visible nature often carries a high stigma towards patients. In his book (1963), Erving Goffman primarily introduced stigma as a deeply discredited trait. Stigma manifests in various forms. Self-stigma, known as felt stigma, is the fear of discrimination and shame that keeps people from seeking help ( 23 ). Enacted stigma refers to the experience of discrimination or unfair behavior by others ( 23 ). Courtesy stigma or associative stigma affects people in close relationships with stigmatized persons, such as the family ( 24 ). Stigma theory explains how public knowledge, common misconceptions, and general attitudes contribute to the affected individuals' psychological burden and quality of life. Although our regression models accounted for 30.2% of the variance in knowledge and 28.1% in attitude, additional unmeasured sociocultural factors likely contributed to these outcomes. Religious beliefs, media exposure, personal experiences with Vitiligo, and prevailing cultural narratives were not explicitly analyzed but may significantly influence public knowledge and attitudes. Future research should consider incorporating these variables to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the determinants of vitiligo-related awareness and perceptions. The findings of this study revealed that 62.8% of the participants had sufficient knowledge about Vitiligo, consistent with findings from Jordan ( 17 ) and Northern Ethiopia ( 19 ). Similarly, a multi-ethnic study in Thailand reported 66% overall knowledge, with significant variations among ethnic groups in which Arabians had the highest knowledge score ( 13 ). Contrary to previous results, data from a Chinese study showed that half of the studied population (44.7%), particularly those from rural areas or with low education levels, had insufficient knowledge of Vitiligo ( 14 ). As shown in our results, almost half of the population in Egypt and Palestine (49.5%) believed that the disease was autoimmune. This is consistent with the Saudi study conducted by Fatani et al. (2016) ( 18 ). In contrast, as reported by Murshidi et al. (2023), over half of Jordanians denied that Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder ( 17 ), and a minority of Northern Ethiopians and Saudis, as reported by Algarni et al. (2021), shared this belief ( 19 , 20 ). These findings reflect the higher levels of knowledge about the nature of the disease among Egyptians and Palestinians. In their studies, Algarni et al. (2021) and Fatani et al. (2016) showed that the majority of the respondents denied that the disease is infectious ( 20 , 18 ), which is consistent with our results, where 86.5% of the respondents agreed with this. Moreover, all three studies (Algarni et al., 2021; Fatani et al., 2016; and our study) agreed that the disease was not dangerous and did not lead to skin cancer ( 18 , 20 ). This present study is in keeping with two other studies in which most participants either did not know or agreed that the disease is hereditary, and only a few chose "NO" as the correct answer ( 18 , 20 ). In contrast, 65.3% of respondents in a study in Northern Ethiopia believed that the disease was not hereditary ( 17 ). Psychological stress does not appear to be a significant triggering factor in disease progression, as reported by Murshidi et al., 2023, Algarni et al., 2021, and our study, in which less than half of the participants agreed that the disease was exaggerated by psychological stress ( 17 , 20 ). In contrast, most respondents from Northern Ethiopia and Turkey recognized the role of psychological stress in exaggerating the disease ( 19 , 20 ), emphasizing the need to increase awareness among Arab societies regarding the role of mental and psychological health in the disease course. Similarly, in Jordan ( 17 ), Northern Ethiopia ( 19 ), and our study, a minority of the respondents believed that magic and witchery might have a role in disease etiology. These results are reassuring and reflect better insights into myths and misconceptions related to the disease. Sixty-two and eight percent (62.8% and 78.5%) of the Saudi participants agreed that the disease significantly affects social status (Algarni et al., 2021, and Fatani et al., 2016 studies, respectively), which is approximately double the number of our results ( 18 , 20 ). Additionally, almost half of the respondents of the Saudi population believed that the disease was treatable, compared to only 26.4% in our study. Regarding attitudes, only 12% of the participants showed negative attitudes towards vitiligo patients. Similarly, in Jordan, a minority of respondents act negatively toward vitiligo patients ( 17 ). The public attitude of our population was significantly greater than that of Indians. According to Asati et al., 2016, only 16.9% of respondents had a good attitude, which was comparatively low ( 12 ). In our study, the most commonly reported negative attitude was the willingness to marry vitiligo patients, with only 39% of respondents declaring that they would marry someone with Vitiligo. This result is quite close to the results of Murshidi et al. (2023), Algarni et al. (2021), and Fatani et al. (2016), in which a minority of respondents agreed ( 17 , 18 , 20 ). In Middle Eastern communities, the stigma surrounding Vitiligo is greatly influenced by cultural norms and beauty standards. Clear and flawless skin is overvalued, especially for women. In traditional societies, women with skin diseases suffer from a lack of marriage opportunities and social isolation ( 25 ). However, the results of the Arab countries are still much higher than those reported in the Northern Ethiopian study, where only 6.7% have the will to marry a vitiligo patient ( 19 ). Despite having a more positive attitude towards marriage in the Middle East, engagement in a healthy, stable relationship is still challenging for vitiligo patients. Interestingly, the highest attitudes in this study were towards the employment of vitiligo patients, where 83.8% of respondents agreed that they would hire vitiligo patients. These results are similar to those reported for Jordan and Saudi Arabia ( 17 , 18 ). In contrast, less than half of the study population in Northern Ethiopia agreed to hire vitiligo patients ( 19 ). Additionally, our study found attitudes such as eating food prepared by a vitiligo patient and shaking hands with vitiligo patients were highly positive, with most respondents agreeing. In contrast, fewer respondents showed a positive attitude in such situations in Tsadik et al. (2020) and Fatani et al. (2016) ( 18 – 20 ). In general, Arab societies are highly influenced by Islamic teachings, which play an essential role in shaping public attitudes and behaviors. Islam counteracts stigma by encouraging compassion, promoting acceptance, and prohibiting discrimination based on physical appearance. Cultural and religious factors foster supportive societal attitudes and alleviate the psychological burden. When asked whether there is a lack of public awareness regarding Vitiligo and its treatment, 82.8% of Egyptians and Palestinians and most Saudi respondents, as reported by Fatani et al. (2016), answered "yes" ( 18 ). This highlights the need for public awareness campaigns and stresses its vital role in improving vitiligo patients' quality of life and potentially decreasing the prevalence of depression and anxiety. In this study, people aged over 35 years, those who had heard about the disease, health care professionals, females, individuals from urban areas, those living with a vitiligo patient, and families with a monthly income of more than 12000 LE (equal to more than 6000 NIS in Palestine) showed higher overall knowledge scores. These results are consistent with the findings of Tsadik et al. (2020) and Murshidi et al. (2023) ( 17 , 19 ). The lowest overall knowledge and attitude scores were found among those who had not heard of the disease before and, surprisingly, participants with Vitiligo and whose partners had Vitiligo. This was unexpected because the latter two results are quite the opposite of what has been shown in previous studies, where participants with Vitiligo and participants who lived with partners with Vitiligo had the highest knowledge and attitude levels. This result may be influenced by the small sample size relative to the large geographic area included. One of the highest attitude scores was among younger participants aged less than 35 years and students. This result is promising because the new generation is more influenced by and attached to social media platforms, which could be used as an easily accessible awareness tool. Females, singles, health care professionals, individuals who previously heard about the disease, those who live in urban areas, families with higher monthly income, and bachelor's degree holders or higher educational levels were found to have significantly higher attitude scores. The present study found a significant relationship between higher knowledge and attitude scores among the study population. As a result, participants who were educated about the disease tended to show more positive attitudes toward the patients. This is consistent with previous studies by Murshidi et al. (2023), Fatani et al. (2016), and Tsadik et al. (2020) ( 17 , 18 , 19 ). Thus, raising public awareness is the cornerstone of changing the public's attitude towards the disease. The lack of public awareness and community support for patients with Vitiligo seems to be a global issue. As the stigma theory proposes, public health interventions should focus on clarifying myths and increasing community exposure ( 26 ). This could be achieved via community workshops to inform people about the disease, awareness-raising programs in colleges and schools, and social media campaigns using social media platforms such as YouTube and Instagram. In 2023, a comparative quasi-experimental study by Khalil et al. found that an educational program effectively improved knowledge and attitudes toward Vitiligo among Saudi and Egyptian professionals and non-professionals, emphasizing the importance of health awareness programs for affected individuals ( 27 ). Our study primarily focused on the Middle Eastern population; however, the results could be applied to broader regions in Asia, Africa, and Latin America with comparable cultural and Socioeconomic circumstances. Although direct applicability to other populations with different cultural norms and socioeconomic factors could be limited, this study adds to the literature by addressing comparative perspectives with non-Middle Eastern countries. This could help determine the global and regional factors influencing public perception of Vitiligo. Limitation of study This study has some limitations that should be considered. First, our sample size was relatively small due to the large geographic areas included, which adversely affected our results. Additionally, online questionnaires may contribute to sampling bias, where older participants and those not used to or not having access to modern technology are potentially excluded from the study. However, using online questionnaires was appropriate to ensure a higher response rate, larger sample size, participants' privacy, and cost-effectiveness. In particular, the current political situation in Palestine has limited access to the entire population. Accordingly, incorporating offline or in-person surveys was challenging. Unlike other observational studies, cross-sectional studies do not include individuals over time. This fact may contribute to temporal bias, where it may be challenging to ascertain the temporal order of exposure and outcome, and may have consequences for causal inferences. Because the data were gathered over four months, seasonal or cultural variations might have impacted participant responses. Social events, national holidays, weather changes, and political situations may have affected public perception and response rates (28,29). Furthermore, this study did not examine the actual behavior of the participants. It depends only on self-reported responses to attitude-related questions, which could be subjective to a large extent. Unlike other studies that focused on a specific country or region, we conducted this study in two different countries to provide a bigger picture of the perception of the disease in Middle Eastern countries. Our recommendations for future researchers are to validate our findings in diverse geographic areas to assess generalizability, focus on a broadly representative sample, and attempt to use more reliable, objective tools to investigate the public's behaviors. Future researchers should incorporate offline data collection for greater inclusivity, validate findings across diverse regions to assess generalizability, focus on a representative sample, and use more reliable and objective tools to investigate the public's behaviors. Declarations Ethics approval and consent to participate Ethical approval was obtained from the Faculty of Medicine Ethics Committee at the University of Mansoura, Egypt (IRB No.: R.24.03.2549) and the Faculty of Medicine at Al-Quds University, Jerusalem (IRB No.: 383/REC/2024). All the participants signed a consent form before participating in the study. Informed consent for publication Not applicable; this paper does not include any personal data. Availability of data and materials All raw and analyzed data generated during this study are provided as supplementary materials. Competing interests The authors declare no conflicts of interest and no funding received that influenced the interpretation of the data or conclusions drawn in this manuscript. Funding This research received no external funding. Authors' contributions Concept and design: AMS, SRME, SHS. Survey design: SRME. Data collection: AMS, SRME, SHS, ZRA, MAEF, EAO, AR, AYAMI, and YSH. IRB approval: SHS, MAE, SHF. Data analysis: KM, IS, and SRME. Writing: AMS, SRME, IS, SHS, ZRA, MAEF, EAO, AR, AYAMI, BMAZ, and YSH. Revising manuscript: AMS, IS, KM, SHS. Supervision: AMS. Collaborators Munia Maher Rajabi, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Palestine, [email protected] . Mera Saleem Abuzant, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Palestine, [email protected] . Mariam Fathy Mohammed Ali El Dosokey, Faculty of Medicine Alzher University, Cairo, Egypt, [email protected] . Ramy Rafaat Wadie Yassa, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt, [email protected] . Nour Nabil Abd-ElAziz ElSady, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig National University, 10th of Ramadan City, Egypt, [email protected] . Hager Zayed Fahmy Eljafrawi, Faculty of Medicine, Al Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt, [email protected] . Kholoud Mohamed Badawy Hussein Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt, [email protected] . Basma Kamel Mohamed, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt, [email protected] . Kareem Ibraheem, Faculty of Medicine, Palestine Polytechnic University, Hebron, Palestine, [email protected] . Fatma Hosny Ahmed Mohamed, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, [email protected] . Fatmah El_Zhraa Alaa El_deen Salamh Mohammed, Faculty of Medicine, Arish University, Arish of North Sinai, Egypt, [email protected] . Reem Adawi, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, East Jerusalem, Palestine [email protected] . Ihab Abu Nimeh, Faculty of Medicine, Rostov State Government Medical University, Rostov-na-Donu, Russia [email protected] . References Frączek A, Owczarczyk-Saczonek A, Placek W. The Role of TRM Cells in thePathogenesis of Vitiligo-A Review of the Current State-Of-The-Art. Int J Mol Sci. 2020May 18;21(10). Bergqvist C, Ezzedine K. Vitiligo: A Review. Dermatology (Basel). 2020 Mar10;236(6):571–92. Bergqvist C, Ezzedine K. Vitiligo: A focus on pathogenesis and its therapeuticimplications. J Dermatol. 2021 Mar;48(3):252–70. Ezzedine K, Eleftheriadou V, Jones H, Bibeau K, Kuo FI, Sturm D, et al. Psychosocialeffects of Vitiligo: A systematic literature review. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2021Nov;22(6):757–74. Thakur V, Bishnoi A, Vinay K, Kumaran SM, Parsad D. Vitiligo: Translational researchand effective therapeutic strategies. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res. 2021Jul;34(4):814–26. Bibeau K, Ezzedine K, Harris JE, van Geel N, Grimes P, Parsad D, et al. Mental Healthand Psychosocial Quality-of-Life Burden Among Patients With Vitiligo: Findings Fromthe Global VALIANT Study. JAMA Dermatol. 2023 Oct 1;159(10):1124–8. Marchioro HZ, Silva de Castro CC, Fava VM, Sakiyama PH, Dellatorre G, Miot HA. Update on the pathogenesis of oAVitiligo. A Bras Dermatol. 2022 May 25;97(4):478–90. mortality; sex, age, and geography distribution; and possible causes. J Cancer ResClin Oncol. 2023 Jul;149(8):5139–63. Hamidizadeh N, Ranjbar S, Ghanizadeh A, Parvizi MM, Jafari P, Handjani F.Evaluating prevalence of depression, anxiety, and hopelessness in patients with Vitiligoon an Iranian population. Health Qual Life Outcomes. 2020 Feb 3;18(1):20. Abdel-Malek ZA, Jordan C, Ho T, Upadhyay PR, Fleischer A, Hamzavi I. The enigmaand challenges of vitiligo pathophysiology and treatment. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res.2020 Nov;33(6):778–87. Bibeau K, Pandya AG, Ezzedine K, Jones H, Gao J, Lindley A, et al. Vitiligoprevalence and quality of life among adults in Europe, Japan, and the USA. J Eur AcadDermatol Venereol. 2022 Oct;36(10):1831–44. Asati DP, Gupta CM, Tiwari S, Kumar S, Jamra V. A hospital-based study onknowledge and attitude related to Vitiligo among adults visiting a tertiary health facilityof central India. J Nat Sci Biol Med. 2016 Jun;7(1):27–32. Juntongjin P, Abouelsaad S, Sugkraroek S, Taechakraichana N, Lungchukiet P,Nuallaong W. Awareness of Vitiligo among multi-ethnic populations. J CosmetDermatol. 2022 Nov;21(11):5922–30. Zhang X, Naz AF, Jiang L, Fu C, Huang J, Liang Y, et al. Disease Awareness andTreatment Preferences in Vitiligo: A Cross-sectional Study in China. Acta DermVenereol. 2023 Oct 3;103:adv11643. Topal IO, Duman H, Goncu OEK, Durmuscan M, Gungor S, Ulkumen PK. Knowledge,beliefs, and perceptions of Turkish vitiligo patients regarding their condition. A BrasDermatol. 2016;91(6):770–5. Alghamdi KM, Moussa NA, Mandil A, Alkofidi M, Madani A, Aldaham N, et al. Publicperceptions and attitudes toward Vitiligo. J Cutan Med Surg. 2012;16(5):334–40. Murshidi R, Shewaikani N, Al Refaei A, Alfreijat B, Al-Sabri B, Abdallat M, et al. PublicKnowledge and Attitude towards Vitiligo: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Jordan. Int JEnviron Res Public Health. 2023 Jun 19;20(12). Fatani MI, Aldhahri RM, Al Otaibi HO, Kalo BB, Khalifa MA. Acknowledging popularmisconceptions about Vitiligo in western Saudi Arabia. Journal of Dermatology &Dermatologic Surgery. 2016 Jan;20(1):27–31. Tsadik AG, Teklemedhin MZ, Mehari Atey T, Gidey MT, Desta DM. Public Knowledgeand Attitudes towards Vitiligo: A Survey in Mekelle City, Northern Ethiopia. DermatolRes Pract. 2020 May 31;2020:3495165. Algarni MAM, Alqarni WA, Alghanemi LG, Alnashri MM, Alghanemi RG, Mleeh NT.Public Knowledge and Attitude toward Vitiligo in Saudi Arabia. J Dermatol DermatolSurg. 2021 Jul;25(2):59–64. Al-Shobaili HA. Treatment of vitiligo patients by excimer laser improves patients'quality of life. J Cutan Med Surg. 2015 Jan 1;19(1):50–6. Khoury M, Dabit T, Siniora H, Fashho J, Toubasi AA. The prevalence of Vitiligo and itsassociated risk factors in the Middle East and Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Health Sciences Review. 2024 Sep;12:100187. Gray AJ. Stigma in psychiatry. J R Soc Med. 2002 Feb;95(2):72–6. Čolić M. Clarification of stigma concepts in research with families of individuals withneurodevelopmental disabilities. Int J Dev Disabil. 2023;69(4):621–7. Raheel, M.F.S., Snoubar, Y. & Mosbah, W.S. Being female with vitiligo disease in traditional societies within North Africa. BioPsychoSocial Med 18, 1 (2024). Bos AER, Pryor JB, Reeder GD, Stutterheim SE. Stigma: advances in theory andresearch. Basic Appl Soc Psych. 2013 Jan;35(1):1–9. Khalil AI, Elgalad SK, Shereda HMA, Behairy AS. Knowledge and attitudes of Saudiand Egyptian professionals and non-professionals toward vitiligo patients. IJHS. 2023Mar 24;6935–57. Savitz DA, Wellenius GA. Can Cross-Sectional Studies Contribute to CausalInference? It Depends. Am J Epidemiol. 2023 Apr 6;192(4):514–6. Grimes DA, Schulz KF. Bias and causal associations in observational research.Lancet. 2002 Jan 19;359(9302):248–52. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. 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10:03:47","extension":"jpeg","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":196266,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eQQ plot assessing the normality of residuals in the multiple linear regression model with knowledge score as the criterion variable.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage2.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5666970/v1/2da2184b5c1055a8ab1532fc.jpeg"},{"id":79179169,"identity":"3d18cd24-dd6b-46af-a618-eb9f8e790ce8","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-03-25 10:11:47","extension":"jpeg","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":193465,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eQQ plot assessing the normality of residuals in the multiple linear regression model with attitude score as the criterion variable.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage3.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5666970/v1/a1b4172e89defe0a10cd9e90.jpeg"},{"id":79179165,"identity":"0b7e6ca7-732f-4fb3-b792-bd67991af94a","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-03-25 10:11:47","extension":"jpeg","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":131361,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eScatter plot depicting the relationship between knowledge and attitude towards Vitiligo, grouped by sex (0= Female) (1= Male).\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage4.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5666970/v1/bef120dfc1b18ed0b8c49975.jpeg"},{"id":79179805,"identity":"37d06495-7e5e-4d44-9425-2f435baa5c67","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-03-25 10:19:47","extension":"jpeg","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":117039,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eScatter plot depicting the relationship between knowledge and attitude towards Vitiligo, grouped by type of work (0 = Other), (1 = Student), and (2 = Worker).\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage5.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5666970/v1/954fca39bd2349ee94259d7b.jpeg"},{"id":79176997,"identity":"9fbdb51e-9807-4fd3-b41d-3c9cb4f4008a","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-03-25 10:03:47","extension":"jpeg","order_by":6,"title":"Figure 6","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":104104,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eScatter plot depicting the relationship between knowledge and attitude towards Vitiligo, grouped by previous medical experience (0= No) and (1= Yes).\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage6.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5666970/v1/c2c1032bbb377774cf0ab436.jpeg"},{"id":81050853,"identity":"fcc3ef97-93df-44c5-a868-8f5a64a88397","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-04-21 16:05:50","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":2567558,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5666970/v1/ec8dd4e0-c90b-4b33-9e2b-a0dbfbe3e469.pdf"},{"id":79179164,"identity":"a319f8cc-c545-4dc0-92b1-0d268c79eb1f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-03-25 10:11:47","extension":"docx","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":74621,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"Supplementrydata11.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5666970/v1/5d4ae233723788eff4a8be82.docx"},{"id":79176991,"identity":"7001455b-d738-4900-81a0-24d3ca5f25ee","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-03-25 10:03:47","extension":"xlsx","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":463303,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"Data.xlsx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5666970/v1/eeead3777d020e7d2ae700dc.xlsx"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Vitiligo in Egyptian and Palestinian Communities: A Cross-Sectional Study","fulltext":[{"header":"1. Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eVitiligo is a chronic skin condition characterized by depigmented lesions resulting from the autoimmune destruction of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). This disorder affects individuals of all ages, races, and sexes, with a global prevalence of 0.5\u0026ndash;2% (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhile Vitiligo is non-contagious and non-life-threatening, it can significantly affect individuals' psychological well-being and quality of life, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e). This condition is more noticeable in individuals with darker skin tones, often leading to heightened visibility and associated psychosocial challenges (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eVitiligo is broadly classified into two types: non-segmental and segmental. Non-segmental Vitiligo, the more common variant, includes generalized and acrofacial subtypes, whereas segmental Vitiligo typically presents before the age of 20 years and has a more favorable prognosis (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e). Although the exact etiology remains unclear, a combination of genetic, immunological, and environmental factors is believed to contribute to its development (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e). Potential triggers such as sunburn, stress, trauma, and hormonal changes may exacerbate the condition, but these factors likely interact with the underlying predispositions (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe psychosocial impact of Vitiligo is profound, particularly in regions where cultural stigma and misconceptions persist. In some societies, individuals with Vitiligo may face social exclusion or be perceived as \"outsiders,\" leading to anxiety, shame, and reduced self-confidence (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e). Despite its prevalence, public understanding of Vitiligo remains limited, with misconceptions about its contagiousness or causes often prevailing (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAddressing these knowledge gaps through public education is critical for improving societal attitudes and the well-being of affected individuals.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudies on Vitiligo have been conducted in various regions, focusing on different aspects of the condition. In Western countries, Bibeau et al. investigated the prevalence of Vitiligo and its impact on the quality of life among adults in Europe, Japan, and the USA (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e). In India and Thailand, Asati et al. and Juntongjin et al. conducted cross-sectional surveys to assess public knowledge and attitudes toward Vitiligo (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e). Similarly, in China, research has explored awareness and treatment preferences among patients with Vitiligo (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e), while in Turkey, studies have evaluated patients' knowledge, opinions, and attitudes regarding the condition (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the Middle East, studies on public knowledge of and attitudes toward Vitiligo are limited. Research in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Northern Ethiopia has revealed varying levels of awareness and persistent misconceptions despite generally supportive attitudes (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR17 CR18\" citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e). For instance, studies in Saudi Arabia found that while attitudes toward individuals with Vitiligo were positive, understanding the nature of the condition was often deficient (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e). Similarly, research in Northern Ethiopia highlighted that higher levels of knowledge were associated with older age, urban residence, and higher education (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThese findings underscore the need for targeted public education initiatives to dispel myths and foster inclusivity.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDue to limited research on Vitiligo in the Middle East, this study represents one of the first efforts to examine public knowledge and attitudes toward Vitiligo in Egypt and Palestine. By assessing perceptions and addressing misconceptions, this research aims to challenge stereotypes, improve societal understanding, and ultimately enhance the quality of life of individuals living with Vitiligo.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2. Methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.1. Study design\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eWe conducted a cross-sectional study to assess public knowledge and attitudes toward Vitiligo among individuals in Egypt and Palestine. Utilizing a\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn a self-administered online questionnaire, we collected data to gain insights into respondents' demographic characteristics, knowledge levels, and attitudes concerning Vitiligo.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.2. Study Setting\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eWe conducted the study across two primary regions, Egypt and Palestine. Egypt, with a population of approximately 100\u0026nbsp;million, and Palestine, specifically the West Bank, with an estimated population of 5\u0026nbsp;million, provide diverse cultural contexts for investigating public perceptions of Vitiligo. The online nature of the study allowed participants from various urban, suburban, and rural areas to contribute, ensuring a broad representation of vitiligo perspectives.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.3. Study Population\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study targeted Egyptians and Palestinians over 18 as the primary population for the survey. A total of 1,102 Egyptian and 527 Palestinian participants were included. The sampling was conducted through social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp to reach a broad audience.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4. Eligibility Criteria\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe eligibility criteria for this study included participants 18 years or older residing in Egypt or Palestine, with the requirement that they have access to the Internet and the capability to complete the online questionnaire. Individuals under 18 years of age and those who did not disclose their country of origin were excluded from this study. This selection process ensured that the study focused exclusively on the adult population, thereby facilitating the collection of pertinent data regarding their understanding and attitudes toward Vitiligo. Although Vitiligo affects all age groups, minors were excluded from this study because the Ethics Committees in Egypt and Palestine required informed consent from parents before enrollment in the study, which was inapplicable owing to the online nature of the questionnaire.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.5. Sample size\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe minimum required sample size was 385 from the East Bank and 770 from Egypt, calculated using the OpenEpi online calculator, assuming that the population size of Egypt was 100,000,000, the population size of Palestinians in the West Bank was 5,000,000, a 5% margin of error, a 95% confidence interval, and 50% as the response distribution.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.5. Data Collection\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eWe collected data between April 15, 2024, and August 20, 2024, using a self-administered questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. The questionnaire was adapted from a study conducted by Al-Shobaili et al. (2015). It was created by the researchers and validated by two dermatologists (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e). The questionnaire included four sections. The first section addressed the participants' sociodemographic characteristics, including age group, gender, educational level, paternal educational level, maternal educational level, marital status, family income, employment status, location distribution, and whether they had a health-related profession. The second section was designed to capture participants' previous exposure to Vitiligo using four questions: whether they had heard of Vitiligo, had been diagnosed with Vitiligo, had a partner diagnosed with Vitiligo, or lived with someone diagnosed with Vitiligo. The third section included 18 questions to assess the participant's knowledge of the disease, with \"Yes,\" \"Maybe,\" and \"No\" answers. These included questions about the nature of the disease, including whether it was contagious, hereditary, autoimmune, hygiene-related, systemic, food-related, lethal, triggered by psychological distress, the probability of leading to death, whether there is a treatment for Vitiligo, and whether it is magic or witchery. Finally, the fourth section assessed participants' attitudes toward Vitiligo and constituted nine statements to evaluate their agreement with them. These included participants' attitudes toward vitiligo patients in situations such as sharing food, becoming friends, shaking hands, hiring decisions, the probability of divorce occurring if the partner was diagnosed with Vitiligo, and their intimate relationships with others.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eKnowledge score\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the \"knowledge\" section, one point was given for a correct response to a question, whereas an incorrect answer and a \" Maybe \" answer were given zero points. The aggregate of the individual scores was used to calculate the total score, which ranged from 0 to 18. Statistical comparisons were conducted using the percentage of each participant's total knowledge score. According to Tsadik et al. (2020 (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e), \"sufficient knowledge\" was defined as scores greater than or equal to the median score; conversely, \"insufficient knowledge\" was defined as scores below the median level. The knowledge score, consisting of 18 items, demonstrated good internal consistency with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.783.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eAttitude score\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFor every participant, the percentage of the total attitude score was calculated and used for statistical comparison. People were classified as having a \"positive\" or a \"negative attitude.\" The sum of the participants' answers in the attitude score varied from \u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;8 to 8. Participants who scored above zero had a positive attitude, whereas those who scored below zero had a negative attitude. The attitude score, comprising eight items, showed strong reliability with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.808.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.6. Data Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAn Excel spreadsheet was used to extract data from the electronic questionnaire. Subsequently, Jamovi \u003cem\u003e(\u003c/em\u003eversion 2.5\u003cem\u003e) [Computer Software]\u003c/em\u003e was used for data analysis. Frequent distributions and percentages were employed for categorical variables, whereas central tendency and dispersion measures were used for continuous variables.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndependent t-test for two-group comparisons and one-way ANOVA for\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNonparametric data (Kruskal-Wallis test) for more than two comparison groups were utilized to examine any potential associations between the variables under comparison and calculate the effect size. Differences were considered statistically significant at a p-value of 0.05. All data have been pre-checked, and none followed a normal distribution. The test results, including normality assessments, are provided in the supplementary file.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e2.7 Ethical Approval and Consent\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003e Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Mansoura, Egypt (IRB No.: R.24.03.2549), and the Faculty of Medicine at Al-Quds University, Jerusalem (IRB No.: 383/REC/2024). All participants signed an informed consent form before participating in this study.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"3. Results","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1. Sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study on knowledge of and attitudes toward Vitiligo among Egyptian and Palestinian communities involved 1,535 respondents, primarily female (72.11%) and younger than 35 (89.83%). Most participants resided in urban areas (58.95%) and held at least a bachelor's degree (79.86%), with similar educational attainment among their parents (54.13% paternal and 53% maternal education levels at the bachelor's or diploma level). Singles accounted for 75.96% of the population, and students comprised the largest occupational group (52.76%), followed by employed individuals (27.29%) and unemployed participants (19.95%). About 58.5% had a health-related professional background, while only 14.9% belonged to higher-income groups (above L.E. 6,000) (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudy participants' background characteristics and knowledge and attitude scores based on some selected characteristics (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1535).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"16\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c9\" colnum=\"9\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c10\" colnum=\"10\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c11\" colnum=\"11\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c12\" colnum=\"12\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c13\" colnum=\"13\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c14\" colnum=\"14\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c15\" colnum=\"15\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c16\" colnum=\"16\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"7\" nameend=\"c8\" namest=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowledge\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitude Scores\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMedian\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSD\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIQR\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP-value\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect size\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMedian\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSD\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIQR\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP-value\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect size\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAge group (years)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;35\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1379\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.55\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.56\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.126\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0027\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1379\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.93\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.27\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.095\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00307\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e35\u0026ndash;50\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e119\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.03\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.16\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e119\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.86\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.71\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;50\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e37\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.41\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.05\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e37\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.49\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.66\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSex\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003efemale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1107\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.97\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0155\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1107\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.18\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.09\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0174\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003emale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e428\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.66\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.26\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e428\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.23\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.44\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStatus\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003esingle\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1166\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.67\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.48\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.173\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00121\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1166\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.15\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.01983\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003enot-single\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e369\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.39\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.65\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e369\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.16\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.43\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eIncome level\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eL.E 6000\u0026ndash;12000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e760\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.7\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.37\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.012\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00578\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e760\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.79\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.32\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.01043\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLess than L.E 6000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e545\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.25\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.83\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e545\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.75\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMore than L.E. 6000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e230\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e230\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.69\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.78\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLocation\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRural\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e630\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.45\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.63\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.177\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00119\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e630\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.53\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.31\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.01245\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUrban\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e905\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.72\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.44\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e905\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.18\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOccupation\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnemployed\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e306\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.39\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0111\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e306\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.03\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.7\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0179\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmployed\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e419\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.85\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.74\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e419\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.89\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.07\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudent\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e810\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.66\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.44\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e810\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.26\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.03\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"15\" nameend=\"c15\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHealth Professional\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e898\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.22\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.21\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0481\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e898\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.19\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.04\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00953\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e637\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.74\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.75\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e637\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.52\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.42\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c16\" namest=\"c16\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2. The Influence of Sociodemographic Characteristics on Knowledge and Attitude Scores\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eA total of 1535 individuals filled out the self-administered online questionnaire: 1045 (68%) Egyptian and 490(32%) Palestinian. The average and standard deviation of knowledge and attitude scores of the total sample were 11.61\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;3.52 and 4.91\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;3.22, respectively. Nine hundred sixty-four, or about two-thirds of the population (62.8%), showed sufficient knowledge about Vitiligo. Only 12% of participants had negative attitude scores (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e)\u003c/b\u003e. Females represented 72.11% of our sample and reported significantly higher knowledge and attitude scores (\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001). Most participants were younger than 35 years of age (89.83%). According to the Kruskal-Wallis test, age did not significantly affect the attitude or knowledge scores. More than half of the population (58.95%) lived in urban areas. The geographic area did not significantly affect knowledge scores but was significantly associated with higher attitude scores (\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001\u003cem\u003e).\u003c/em\u003e Previous health professions represented 58.5% of the study population and had significantly higher attitudes and knowledge scores (\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001). The proportion of singles was 75.96% of the total population and was significantly associated with higher attitude scores (\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001), whereas it had no impact on knowledge (\u003cem\u003ep\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.173\u003c/em\u003e). Regarding occupation, employed (27.29%) had significantly higher knowledge scores (\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001), whereas students (52.76%) had significantly higher attitude scores. Higher income levels represented only 14.9% of the participants and were associated with significantly higher knowledge and attitude scores (\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001) \u003cb\u003e(\u003c/b\u003eTable\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e).\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe majority had a bachelor's degree (79.86%), and paternal and maternal education had a bachelor's degree or diploma (54.13% and 53%, respectively). Our results showed significant differences between the different groups of personal, paternal, and maternal education levels (P-value\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001) (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHealth study of participants' personal, paternal, and maternal education levels and their influence on their knowledge and attitude scores (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1535).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"15\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c9\" colnum=\"9\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c10\" colnum=\"10\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c11\" colnum=\"11\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c12\" colnum=\"12\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c13\" colnum=\"13\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c14\" colnum=\"14\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c15\" colnum=\"15\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"7\" nameend=\"c8\" namest=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowledge\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"7\" nameend=\"c15\" namest=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitude Scores\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMedian\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSD\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIQR\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP-value\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect size\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMedian\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSD\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIQR\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP-value\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect size\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEducation level\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh school\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e170\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.05\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.79\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0281\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e170\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.28\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.81\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0281\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBachelor's degree/diploma\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1226\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.77\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.42\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1226\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.18\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.01\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigher education\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e139\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.08\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.56\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e139\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.57\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.58\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePaternal education level\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"14\" nameend=\"c15\" namest=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh school\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e516\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.06\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.76\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0122\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e516\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.28\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.34\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.25\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0285\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBachelor's degree/diploma\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e831\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.92\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.38\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e831\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.15\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigher education\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e188\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.73\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.26\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e188\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.03\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"10\" nameend=\"c10\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMaternal education level\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"4\" nameend=\"c15\" namest=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh school\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e606\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.05\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.74\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.75\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0166\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e606\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.05\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.74\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.75\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0298\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBachelor's degree/diploma\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e814\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.95\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.38\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e814\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.95\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.38\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigher education\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e115\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.04\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.96\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e115\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.04\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.96\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3. The Influence of Previous Exposure to Vitiligo on Knowledge and Attitude Scores\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlmost 94% of the study population had heard of Vitiligo, and only 4.4% had the disease. Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e shows a significant association between having Vitiligo, being married to a partner with Vitiligo, having heard of Vitiligo, and having higher knowledge and attitude scores (\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHealth study of participants' personal, paternal, and maternal education levels and their influence on their knowledge and attitude scores (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1535).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"15\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c9\" colnum=\"9\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c10\" colnum=\"10\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c11\" colnum=\"11\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c12\" colnum=\"12\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c13\" colnum=\"13\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c14\" colnum=\"14\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c15\" colnum=\"15\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"7\" nameend=\"c8\" namest=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowledge\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"7\" nameend=\"c15\" namest=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitude Scores\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMedian\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSD\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIQR\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP-value\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect size\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMedian\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSD\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIQR\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP-value\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect size\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe participant lives with a patient with Vitiligo.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1425\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.59\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.54\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.492\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.07E-04\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1425\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.96\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.525\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.64E-04\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e110\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.85\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.25\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e110\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.35\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.04\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe participant's partner has Vitiligo.\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWith no partner\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e780\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.67\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.41\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0115\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e780\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.87\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0219\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e47\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.7\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e47\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.85\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.47\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e708\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.67\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.59\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e708\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.69\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.36\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eParticipant has Vitiligo\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1466\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.72\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0263\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1466\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.09\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.06\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0396\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e69\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.26\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.23\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e69\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe participant has heard of Vitiligo.\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1444\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.89\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.17\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0491\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1444\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.06\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.0504\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e91\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.33\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e91\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.53\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c11\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c12\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.79\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c13\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c14\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c15\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3. Regression Analysis Estimated Independent Predictors of Knowledge and Attitude Scores\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe results of the multiple linear regression analysis with the knowledge score as the criterion variable revealed the following significant predictors: (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e) Male sex (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;0.81, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001); (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e) age between 18 and 15 years and older than 50 years (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1.8, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.001); (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e) health profession (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1.35, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001); (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e) participant having vitiligo (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1.19, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.006); (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e) having heard of vitiligo (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3.17, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001); (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e) family member with vitiligo (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.8837, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.006); (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e) bachelor\u0026rsquo;s degree or diploma holders (estimate = -1.8142, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.018); (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e) high school education (estimate = -2.2885, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.003); and (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e) attitude score (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.36, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001). The model explained 30.2% of the variance in the knowledge scores, and the F-test validated the fitness (F-statistic: 23.2, 28, and 1502 degrees of freedom, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001) (\u003cb\u003eSupplementary material)\u003c/b\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe results of the multiple linear regression analysis with attitude score as the criterion variable revealed the following significant predictors: (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e) ages between 26\u0026ndash;35 years and 18\u0026ndash;25 years (estimate = -0.7035, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.005), (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e) living in urban areas (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.3344, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.023), (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e) bachelor's degree or diploma holders (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1.4157, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.046), (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e) participant having Vitiligo (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;2.24, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001), (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e) having heard of vitiligo (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1.71, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001), (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e) partner with Vitiligo (estimate = -0.9863, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.029), and (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e) knowledge score (estimate\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.31, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001). The model explained 28.1% of the variance in the attitude scores, and the F-test validated the fitness (F-statistic: 21 on 28 and 1506 degrees of freedom, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001) \u003cb\u003e(\u003c/b\u003eFigs.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e)\u003c/b\u003e (\u003cb\u003esupplementary material)\u003c/b\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.4. Participants Responses to the Questions That Build Up the Knowledge and Attitude Scores\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAccording to our results, 85% of patients denied the disease, and only 5.9% reported that Vitiligo is contagious. Twenty-eight percent (20.8%) of the patients had an autoimmune etiology. Over one-third (35,6%) denied that Vitiligo affects patients' social lives, and about one-fourth (25.3%) refused to believe that Vitiligo was exaggerated by exposure to psychological stress. Moreover, when asked about the roles of magic and witchery, only 4.6% thought these could be triggering factors.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFor more details regarding the participants' answers to questions assessing the knowledge score, refer to the \u003cb\u003eSupplementary material\u003c/b\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRegarding participants' attitudes toward Vitiligo, 87.5% disagreed with the statement, \"I would divorce my partner if they were diagnosed with vitiligo,\" and 83.8% agreed with the statement, \"I would hire a vitiligo patient\". When asked about intimate relationships, only 9.9% agreed that Vitiligo affected them.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdditionally, 24.3% disagreed with the statement, \"I would marry a vitiligo patient,\" and only 5.7% and 7.5% refused to shake hands and eat food prepared by vitiligo patients, respectively. For more details regarding participants' extent of agreement with statements assessing attitude scores, refer to Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ctable id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResponse of the participants to attitude questions about Vitiligo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"7\" style=\"width: 23.9423%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eI would hire a vitiligo patient (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e91 (5.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1286 (83.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" style=\"width: 32.0334%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eI would shake hands with a vitiligo patient (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88 (5.7)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1339 (87.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" style=\"width: 32.0334%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eI would become a friend with a vitiligo patient (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e68 (4.4)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1348 (87.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" style=\"width: 32.0334%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eI would eat food prepared by a vitiligo patient (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e115 (7.5)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1243 (81.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"7\" style=\"width: 23.9423%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eI would marry a vitiligo patient (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e373 (24.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e598 (39.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" style=\"width: 32.0334%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eI would marry a family member who has Vitiligo (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e354 (23.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e645 (42.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" style=\"width: 32.0334%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMy intimate relationship would be affected by my partner\u0026apos;s vitiligo diagnosis (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1049 (68.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e152 ( 9.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" style=\"width: 32.0334%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eI would want to divorce if my partner got diagnosed with Vitiligo (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1343 (87.5)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 2.5551%;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.517%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" style=\"width: 8.0912%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e70 (4.6)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.5 Sociocultural Influences on Knowledge and Attitude Toward Vitiligo\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eSociocultural factors, including educational systems, healthcare accessibility, and prevalent cultural beliefs in Egypt and Palestine, may influence regional differences in public knowledge and attitudes toward Vitiligo. Our sample's high proportion of urban, educated respondents suggests a generally favorable awareness of Vitiligo. However, misconceptions about its etiology and impact on social interactions may reflect deeper cultural and historical perceptions of skin diseases. Traditional beliefs about skin conditions, stigma, and access to dermatological care may shape public attitudes in some communities. Additionally, variations in public health initiatives and media representation of Vitiligo could contribute to the differences in awareness levels between the two populations. Future research should explore how these sociocultural aspects influence perceptions and whether targeted awareness campaigns can effectively address specific misconceptions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4. Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eVitiligo is a chronic depigmenting autoimmune skin disorder with an overall prevalence of 3% in the Middle East and Africa (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e). Its visible nature often carries a high stigma towards patients. In his book (1963), Erving Goffman primarily introduced stigma as a deeply discredited trait. Stigma manifests in various forms. Self-stigma, known as felt stigma, is the fear of discrimination and shame that keeps people from seeking help (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e). Enacted stigma refers to the experience of discrimination or unfair behavior by others (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e). Courtesy stigma or associative stigma affects people in close relationships with stigmatized persons, such as the family (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e). Stigma theory explains how public knowledge, common misconceptions, and general attitudes contribute to the affected individuals' psychological burden and quality of life.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlthough our regression models accounted for 30.2% of the variance in knowledge and 28.1% in attitude, additional unmeasured sociocultural factors likely contributed to these outcomes. Religious beliefs, media exposure, personal experiences with Vitiligo, and prevailing cultural narratives were not explicitly analyzed but may significantly influence public knowledge and attitudes. Future research should consider incorporating these variables to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the determinants of vitiligo-related awareness and perceptions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe findings of this study revealed that 62.8% of the participants had sufficient knowledge about Vitiligo, consistent with findings from Jordan (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e) and Northern Ethiopia (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e). Similarly, a multi-ethnic study in Thailand reported 66% overall knowledge, with significant variations among ethnic groups in which Arabians had the highest knowledge score (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e). Contrary to previous results, data from a Chinese study showed that half of the studied population (44.7%), particularly those from rural areas or with low education levels, had insufficient knowledge of Vitiligo (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs shown in our results, almost half of the population in Egypt and Palestine (49.5%) believed that the disease was autoimmune. This is consistent with the Saudi study conducted by Fatani et al. (2016) (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e). In contrast, as reported by Murshidi et al. (2023), over half of Jordanians denied that Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e), and a minority of Northern Ethiopians and Saudis, as reported by Algarni et al. (2021), shared this belief (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e). These findings reflect the higher levels of knowledge about the nature of the disease among Egyptians and Palestinians.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn their studies, Algarni et al. (2021) and Fatani et al. (2016) showed that the majority of the respondents denied that the disease is infectious (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e), which is consistent with our results, where 86.5% of the respondents agreed with this. Moreover, all three studies (Algarni et al., 2021; Fatani et al., 2016; and our study) agreed that the disease was not dangerous and did not lead to skin cancer (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis present study is in keeping with two other studies in which most participants either did not know or agreed that the disease is hereditary, and only a few chose \"NO\" as the correct answer (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e). In contrast, 65.3% of respondents in a study in Northern Ethiopia believed that the disease was not hereditary (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePsychological stress does not appear to be a significant triggering factor in disease progression, as reported by Murshidi et al., 2023, Algarni et al., 2021, and our study, in which less than half of the participants agreed that the disease was exaggerated by psychological stress (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e). In contrast, most respondents from Northern Ethiopia and Turkey recognized the role of psychological stress in exaggerating the disease (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e), emphasizing the need to increase awareness among Arab societies regarding the role of mental and psychological health in the disease course. Similarly, in Jordan (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e), Northern Ethiopia (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e), and our study, a minority of the respondents believed that magic and witchery might have a role in disease etiology. These results are reassuring and reflect better insights into myths and misconceptions related to the disease.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSixty-two and eight percent (62.8% and 78.5%) of the Saudi participants agreed that the disease significantly affects social status (Algarni et al., 2021, and Fatani et al., 2016 studies, respectively), which is approximately double the number of our results (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e). Additionally, almost half of the respondents of the Saudi population believed that the disease was treatable, compared to only 26.4% in our study.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRegarding attitudes, only 12% of the participants showed negative attitudes towards vitiligo patients. Similarly, in Jordan, a minority of respondents act negatively toward vitiligo patients (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e). The public attitude of our population was significantly greater than that of Indians. According to Asati et al., 2016, only 16.9% of respondents had a good attitude, which was comparatively low (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e). In our study, the most commonly reported negative attitude was the willingness to marry vitiligo patients, with only 39% of respondents declaring that they would marry someone with Vitiligo. This result is quite close to the results of Murshidi et al. (2023), Algarni et al. (2021), and Fatani et al. (2016), in which a minority of respondents agreed (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e). In Middle Eastern communities, the stigma surrounding Vitiligo is greatly influenced by cultural norms and beauty standards. Clear and flawless skin is overvalued, especially for women. In traditional societies, women with skin diseases suffer from a lack of marriage opportunities and social isolation (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e). However, the results of the Arab countries are still much higher than those reported in the Northern Ethiopian study, where only 6.7% have the will to marry a vitiligo patient (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e). Despite having a more positive attitude towards marriage in the Middle East, engagement in a healthy, stable relationship is still challenging for vitiligo patients.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterestingly, the highest attitudes in this study were towards the employment of vitiligo patients, where 83.8% of respondents agreed that they would hire vitiligo patients. These results are similar to those reported for Jordan and Saudi Arabia (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e). In contrast, less than half of the study population in Northern Ethiopia agreed to hire vitiligo patients (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e). Additionally, our study found attitudes such as eating food prepared by a vitiligo patient and shaking hands with vitiligo patients were highly positive, with most respondents agreeing. In contrast, fewer respondents showed a positive attitude in such situations in Tsadik et al. (2020) and Fatani et al. (2016) (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR19\" citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e). In general, Arab societies are highly influenced by Islamic teachings, which play an essential role in shaping public attitudes and behaviors. Islam counteracts stigma by encouraging compassion, promoting acceptance, and prohibiting discrimination based on physical appearance. Cultural and religious factors foster supportive societal attitudes and alleviate the psychological burden.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen asked whether there is a lack of public awareness regarding Vitiligo and its treatment, 82.8% of Egyptians and Palestinians and most Saudi respondents, as reported by Fatani et al. (2016), answered \"yes\" (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e). This highlights the need for public awareness campaigns and stresses its vital role in improving vitiligo patients' quality of life and potentially decreasing the prevalence of depression and anxiety.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn this study, people aged over 35 years, those who had heard about the disease, health care professionals, females, individuals from urban areas, those living with a vitiligo patient, and families with a monthly income of more than 12000 LE (equal to more than 6000 NIS in Palestine) showed higher overall knowledge scores. These results are consistent with the findings of Tsadik et al. (2020) and Murshidi et al. (2023) (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e). The lowest overall knowledge and attitude scores were found among those who had not heard of the disease before and, surprisingly, participants with Vitiligo and whose partners had Vitiligo. This was unexpected because the latter two results are quite the opposite of what has been shown in previous studies, where participants with Vitiligo and participants who lived with partners with Vitiligo had the highest knowledge and attitude levels. This result may be influenced by the small sample size relative to the large geographic area included.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e One of the highest attitude scores was among younger participants aged less than 35 years and students. This result is promising because the new generation is more influenced by and attached to social media platforms, which could be used as an easily accessible awareness tool. Females, singles, health care professionals, individuals who previously heard about the disease, those who live in urban areas, families with higher monthly income, and bachelor's degree holders or higher educational levels were found to have significantly higher attitude scores.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe present study found a significant relationship between higher knowledge and attitude scores among the study population. As a result, participants who were educated about the disease tended to show more positive attitudes toward the patients. This is consistent with previous studies by Murshidi et al. (2023), Fatani et al. (2016), and Tsadik et al. (2020) (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e). Thus, raising public awareness is the cornerstone of changing the public's attitude towards the disease.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe lack of public awareness and community support for patients with Vitiligo seems to be a global issue. As the stigma theory proposes, public health interventions should focus on clarifying myths and increasing community exposure (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e). This could be achieved via community workshops to inform people about the disease, awareness-raising programs in colleges and schools, and social media campaigns using social media platforms such as YouTube and Instagram. In 2023, a comparative quasi-experimental study by Khalil et al. found that an educational program effectively improved knowledge and attitudes toward Vitiligo among Saudi and Egyptian professionals and non-professionals, emphasizing the importance of health awareness programs for affected individuals (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e27\u003c/span\u003e). Our study primarily focused on the Middle Eastern population; however, the results could be applied to broader regions in Asia, Africa, and Latin America with comparable cultural and\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSocioeconomic circumstances. Although direct applicability to other populations with different cultural norms and socioeconomic factors could be limited, this study adds to the literature by addressing comparative perspectives with non-Middle Eastern countries. This could help determine the global and regional factors influencing public perception of Vitiligo.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eLimitation of study\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study has some limitations that should be considered. First, our sample size was relatively small due to the large geographic areas included, which adversely affected our results. Additionally, online questionnaires may contribute to sampling bias, where older participants and those not used to or not having access to modern technology are potentially excluded from the study. However, using online questionnaires was appropriate to ensure a higher response rate, larger sample size, participants' privacy, and cost-effectiveness. In particular, the current political situation in Palestine has limited access to the entire population.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAccordingly, incorporating offline or in-person surveys was challenging.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnlike other observational studies, cross-sectional studies do not include individuals over time. This fact may contribute to temporal bias, where it may be challenging to ascertain the temporal order of exposure and outcome, and may have consequences for causal inferences. Because the data were gathered over four months, seasonal or cultural variations might have impacted participant responses. Social events, national holidays, weather changes, and political situations may have affected public perception and response rates (28,29). Furthermore, this study did not examine the actual behavior of the participants. It depends only on self-reported responses to attitude-related questions, which could be subjective to a large extent. Unlike other studies that focused on a specific country or region, we conducted this study in two different countries to provide a bigger picture of the perception of the disease in Middle Eastern countries. Our recommendations for future researchers are to validate our findings in diverse geographic areas to assess generalizability, focus on a broadly representative sample, and attempt to use more reliable, objective tools to investigate the public's behaviors. Future researchers should incorporate offline data collection for greater inclusivity, validate findings across diverse regions to assess generalizability, focus on a representative sample, and use more reliable and objective tools to investigate the public's behaviors.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003eEthics approval and consent to participate\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEthical approval was obtained from the Faculty of Medicine Ethics Committee at the University of Mansoura, Egypt (IRB No.: R.24.03.2549) and the Faculty of Medicine at Al-Quds University, Jerusalem (IRB No.: 383/REC/2024). All the participants signed a consent form before participating in the study.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInformed consent for publication\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable; this paper does not include any personal data.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvailability of data and materials\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAll raw and analyzed data generated during this study are provided as supplementary materials.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCompeting interests\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare no conflicts of interest and no funding received that influenced the interpretation of the data or conclusions drawn in this manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFunding\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis research received no external funding.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuthors\u0026apos; contributions\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConcept and design: \u003c/strong\u003eAMS, SRME, SHS.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSurvey design: \u003c/strong\u003eSRME.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData collection: \u003c/strong\u003eAMS, SRME, SHS, ZRA, MAEF, EAO, AR, AYAMI, and YSH.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIRB approval: \u003c/strong\u003eSHS, MAE, SHF.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData analysis: \u003c/strong\u003eKM, IS, and SRME.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWriting: \u003c/strong\u003eAMS, SRME, IS, SHS, ZRA, MAEF, EAO, AR, AYAMI, BMAZ, and YSH.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevising manuscript: \u003c/strong\u003eAMS, IS, KM, SHS.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupervision: \u003c/strong\u003eAMS.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCollaborators\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMunia Maher Rajabi, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Palestine, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMera Saleem Abuzant, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Palestine, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMariam Fathy Mohammed Ali El Dosokey, Faculty of Medicine Alzher University, Cairo, Egypt, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRamy Rafaat Wadie Yassa, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNour Nabil Abd-ElAziz ElSady, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig National University, 10th of Ramadan City, Egypt, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHager Zayed Fahmy Eljafrawi, Faculty of Medicine, Al Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKholoud Mohamed Badawy Hussein Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBasma Kamel Mohamed, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKareem Ibraheem, Faculty of Medicine, Palestine Polytechnic University, Hebron, Palestine, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFatma Hosny Ahmed Mohamed, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFatmah El_Zhraa Alaa El_deen Salamh Mohammed, Faculty of Medicine, Arish University, Arish of North Sinai, Egypt, [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReem Adawi, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, East Jerusalem, Palestine [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIhab Abu Nimeh, Faculty of Medicine, Rostov State Government Medical University, Rostov-na-Donu, Russia [email protected].\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrączek A, Owczarczyk-Saczonek A, Placek W. The Role of TRM Cells in thePathogenesis of Vitiligo-A Review of the Current State-Of-The-Art. Int J Mol Sci. 2020May 18;21(10).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBergqvist C, Ezzedine K. Vitiligo: A Review. Dermatology (Basel). 2020 Mar10;236(6):571\u0026ndash;92.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBergqvist C, Ezzedine K. Vitiligo: A focus on pathogenesis and its therapeuticimplications. J Dermatol. 2021 Mar;48(3):252\u0026ndash;70.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEzzedine K, Eleftheriadou V, Jones H, Bibeau K, Kuo FI, Sturm D, et al. Psychosocialeffects of Vitiligo: A systematic literature review. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2021Nov;22(6):757\u0026ndash;74.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThakur V, Bishnoi A, Vinay K, Kumaran SM, Parsad D. Vitiligo: Translational researchand effective therapeutic strategies. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res. 2021Jul;34(4):814\u0026ndash;26.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBibeau K, Ezzedine K, Harris JE, van Geel N, Grimes P, Parsad D, et al. Mental Healthand Psychosocial Quality-of-Life Burden Among Patients With Vitiligo: Findings Fromthe Global VALIANT Study. JAMA Dermatol. 2023 Oct 1;159(10):1124\u0026ndash;8.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarchioro HZ, Silva de Castro CC, Fava VM, Sakiyama PH, Dellatorre G, Miot HA. Update on the pathogenesis of oAVitiligo. A Bras Dermatol. 2022 May 25;97(4):478\u0026ndash;90. mortality; sex, age, and geography distribution; and possible causes. J Cancer ResClin Oncol. 2023 Jul;149(8):5139\u0026ndash;63.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHamidizadeh N, Ranjbar S, Ghanizadeh A, Parvizi MM, Jafari P, Handjani F.Evaluating prevalence of depression, anxiety, and hopelessness in patients with Vitiligoon an Iranian population. Health Qual Life Outcomes. 2020 Feb 3;18(1):20.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbdel-Malek ZA, Jordan C, Ho T, Upadhyay PR, Fleischer A, Hamzavi I. The enigmaand challenges of vitiligo pathophysiology and treatment. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res.2020 Nov;33(6):778\u0026ndash;87.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBibeau K, Pandya AG, Ezzedine K, Jones H, Gao J, Lindley A, et al. Vitiligoprevalence and quality of life among adults in Europe, Japan, and the USA. J Eur AcadDermatol Venereol. 2022 Oct;36(10):1831\u0026ndash;44.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsati DP, Gupta CM, Tiwari S, Kumar S, Jamra V. A hospital-based study onknowledge and attitude related to Vitiligo among adults visiting a tertiary health facilityof central India. J Nat Sci Biol Med. 2016 Jun;7(1):27\u0026ndash;32.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJuntongjin P, Abouelsaad S, Sugkraroek S, Taechakraichana N, Lungchukiet P,Nuallaong W. Awareness of Vitiligo among multi-ethnic populations. J CosmetDermatol. 2022 Nov;21(11):5922\u0026ndash;30.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZhang X, Naz AF, Jiang L, Fu C, Huang J, Liang Y, et al. Disease Awareness andTreatment Preferences in Vitiligo: A Cross-sectional Study in China. Acta DermVenereol. 2023 Oct 3;103:adv11643.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTopal IO, Duman H, Goncu OEK, Durmuscan M, Gungor S, Ulkumen PK. Knowledge,beliefs, and perceptions of Turkish vitiligo patients regarding their condition. A BrasDermatol. 2016;91(6):770\u0026ndash;5.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlghamdi KM, Moussa NA, Mandil A, Alkofidi M, Madani A, Aldaham N, et al. Publicperceptions and attitudes toward Vitiligo. J Cutan Med Surg. 2012;16(5):334\u0026ndash;40.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMurshidi R, Shewaikani N, Al Refaei A, Alfreijat B, Al-Sabri B, Abdallat M, et al. PublicKnowledge and Attitude towards Vitiligo: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Jordan. Int JEnviron Res Public Health. 2023 Jun 19;20(12).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFatani MI, Aldhahri RM, Al Otaibi HO, Kalo BB, Khalifa MA. Acknowledging popularmisconceptions about Vitiligo in western Saudi Arabia. Journal of Dermatology \u0026amp;Dermatologic Surgery. 2016 Jan;20(1):27\u0026ndash;31.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTsadik AG, Teklemedhin MZ, Mehari Atey T, Gidey MT, Desta DM. Public Knowledgeand Attitudes towards Vitiligo: A Survey in Mekelle City, Northern Ethiopia. DermatolRes Pract. 2020 May 31;2020:3495165.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlgarni MAM, Alqarni WA, Alghanemi LG, Alnashri MM, Alghanemi RG, Mleeh NT.Public Knowledge and Attitude toward Vitiligo in Saudi Arabia. J Dermatol DermatolSurg. 2021 Jul;25(2):59\u0026ndash;64.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAl-Shobaili HA. Treatment of vitiligo patients by excimer laser improves patients\u0026apos;quality of life. J Cutan Med Surg. 2015 Jan 1;19(1):50\u0026ndash;6.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKhoury M, Dabit T, Siniora H, Fashho J, Toubasi AA. The prevalence of Vitiligo and itsassociated risk factors in the Middle East and Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Health Sciences Review. 2024 Sep;12:100187.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGray AJ. Stigma in psychiatry. J R Soc Med. 2002 Feb;95(2):72\u0026ndash;6.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eČolić M. Clarification of stigma concepts in research with families of individuals withneurodevelopmental disabilities. Int J Dev Disabil. 2023;69(4):621\u0026ndash;7.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRaheel, M.F.S., Snoubar, Y. \u0026amp; Mosbah, W.S. Being female with vitiligo disease in traditional societies within North Africa. \u003cem\u003eBioPsychoSocial Med\u003c/em\u003e 18, 1 (2024).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBos AER, Pryor JB, Reeder GD, Stutterheim SE. Stigma: advances in theory andresearch. Basic Appl Soc Psych. 2013 Jan;35(1):1\u0026ndash;9.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKhalil AI, Elgalad SK, Shereda HMA, Behairy AS. Knowledge and attitudes of Saudiand Egyptian professionals and non-professionals toward vitiligo patients. IJHS. 2023Mar 24;6935\u0026ndash;57.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSavitz DA, Wellenius GA. Can Cross-Sectional Studies Contribute to CausalInference? It Depends. Am J Epidemiol. 2023 Apr 6;192(4):514\u0026ndash;6.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrimes DA, Schulz KF. Bias and causal associations in observational research.Lancet. 2002 Jan 19;359(9302):248\u0026ndash;52.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":true,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"bmc-public-health","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"pubh","sideBox":"Learn more about [BMC Public Health](http://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/pubh/default.aspx","title":"BMC Public Health","twitterHandle":"@BMC_series","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"BMC Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Vitiligo, awareness, attitudes, Middle East, autoimmune disorders, skin pigmentation, Egypt, Palestine","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5666970/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5666970/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBackground: \u003c/strong\u003eVitiligo is an acquired dermatological condition characterized by localized skin depigmentation. It affects 0.5% to 2% of the population, impacting individuals across various ages, races, and genders. The psychosocial effects of Vitiligo can significantly influence quality of life, particularly in people with darker skin tones, where the contrast of lesions is more pronounced.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eObjectives: \u003c/strong\u003eThis study evaluated public knowledge, attitudes, and misconceptions regarding Vitiligo in Egypt and Palestine, focusing on specific demographic Variations and the potential need for improved community engagement and education.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethod: \u003c/strong\u003eA multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1,045 participants from Egypt and 450 participants from the West Bank. An online self-administered questionnaire was developed using Google Forms. The eligibility criteria for participation included Egyptian and Palestinian citizens residing in the West Bank. Individuals under 18 years or outside the designated study settings were excluded from participation. This study was conducted from April 2024 to August 2024.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResults: \u003c/strong\u003eThe analysis indicated that 62.8% of participants demonstrated adequate knowledge of Vitiligo; however, only 87.6% exhibited favorable attitudes toward the condition. The study revealed significant variations in knowledge and attitudes based on gender, occupation, previous health professional experience, and social status.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEconomic level and geographic location. Educational level was found to have a considerable impact on attitudes.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMultiple linear regression analysis identified several significant predictors of\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowledge and attitude scores included male gender, age categories of 18 to 25 and over 50, marital status, occupation in a health profession, personal experience with Vitiligo, prior awareness of the condition, and the attitude score itself. This explained 30.2% of the variance in knowledge scores and 28.1% in attitude ratings.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConclusion: \u003c/strong\u003eThis study provides valuable insights into public awareness and perceptions of Vitiligo in Egypt and Palestine. A significant proportion of the participants demonstrated adequate awareness of the condition; however, favorable opinions appeared less prevalent. Notable discrepancies were observed among the various demographic characteristics, highlighting the need for targeted initiatives, such as media campaigns and school-based education, aimed at addressing information gaps and improving public perception.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Vitiligo in Egyptian and Palestinian Communities: A Cross-Sectional Study","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-03-25 10:03:42","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5666970/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"decision","content":"Revision requested","date":"2025-04-04T17:45:44+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2025-04-04T17:43:00+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2025-03-25T09:16:08+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"22334520911099573696724995316975307013","date":"2025-03-25T09:12:47+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2025-03-24T14:26:38+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2025-03-20T08:11:17+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"BMC Public Health","date":"2025-03-19T20:34:49+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"bmc-public-health","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"pubh","sideBox":"Learn more about [BMC Public Health](http://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/pubh/default.aspx","title":"BMC Public Health","twitterHandle":"@BMC_series","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"BMC Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"74eca75b-7bbd-4688-8fb9-fa426152344b","owner":[],"postedDate":"March 25th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"published-in-journal","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-04-21T16:00:49+00:00","versionOfRecord":{"articleIdentity":"rs-5666970","link":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-025-22663-x","journal":{"identity":"bmc-public-health","isVorOnly":false,"title":"BMC Public Health"},"publishedOn":"2025-04-14 15:57:32","publishedOnDateReadable":"April 14th, 2025"},"versionCreatedAt":"2025-03-25 10:03:42","video":"","vorDoi":"10.1186/s12889-025-22663-x","vorDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-025-22663-x","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-5666970","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-5666970","identity":"rs-5666970","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}