Publication:

Evaluation of the knowledge, attitude and practice of cosmetovigilance among medical and paramedical students in a tertiary care hospital

Background Cosmetovigilance is an emerging system aimed at monitoring and preventing adverse cosmetic reactions (ACRs). Despite extensive cosmetic usage, reporting of ACRs remains inadequate, particularly in developing countries. Healthcare students, as future professionals, play a crucial role in recognizing and reporting these reactions; however, their knowledge and practice regarding cosmetovigilance are not well established. Objectives were to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of cosmetovigilance among medical and paramedical students in a tertiary care hospital and to evaluate their willingness to report ACRs.

Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2025 to September 2025 among approximately 200 medical and paramedical students of ACS Medical College and Hospital, a tertiary care teaching hospital in Tamil Nadu. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire assessing KAP related to cosmetovigilance. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, and results were expressed as frequencies and percentages.

Results The study revealed inadequate knowledge and poor practice of cosmetovigilance among the participants, with paramedical students showing lower levels compared to medical students. Awareness regarding the concept of cosmetovigilance and reporting mechanisms was limited. However, a positive attitude towards cosmetovigilance was observed, as most participants agreed that reporting ACRs is necessary and expressed willingness to report such reactions in the future.

Conclusions Although the attitude towards cosmetovigilance was favorable, significant gaps in knowledge and practice were identified among medical and paramedical students. Incorporation of cosmetovigilance training into healthcare curricula and regular educational programs is essential to promote adverse cosmetic reaction reporting and improve patient safety.