Prevalence and associated factors of facial palsy and lifestyle characteristics: data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010-2012.

OBJECTIVES

To report the nationwide prevalence of facial palsy (FP) of grade III or worse in the House-Brackmann (H-B) grading system in South Korea and assess the associated factors.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional analysis of a nationwide health survey.

SETTINGS

South Korea.

METHODS

We obtained data from the 2010 to 2012 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, which were cross-sectional surveys of the South Korean civilian population living in households and aged ≥1 year (N=23 533). A field survey team performed interviews, physical examinations and laboratory tests. Facial expression was evaluated based on the H-B grading system.

RESULTS

Among the population aged ≥1 year, the prevalence of FP of grade III or worse in the H-B grading system was 0.12% (95% CI 0.07% to 0.17%). FP was more prevalent in women (p=0.01) and the prevalence rate increased with age (p<0.001). In participants aged ≥19 years, age, female gender, history of cardiovascular disease and the serum total cholesterol level were associated with FP in a multivariable analysis. In the evaluation of lifestyle, the individuals with FP had a higher rate of depressive mood and were more restricted in their daily activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the significance of facial expression in psychosocial activities, public acknowledgement and further intervention are required to support patients with this distressing condition.