Botulinum neurotoxin is Clostridium botulinum's anaerobic metabolite. In historical records, it is primarily associated with mass poisonings in the consumption of meat products. With the advancement of technology, over the years scientists have come to new findings about its structure, mechanism of action and potential use in medical purposes. As a side effect, doctors have noticed a reduction in treated patient's facial wrinkles, and since then toxin has been used in cosmetic industry. Wrinkles are less visible because of the skin relaxation, which is a consequence of a paralysis of the muscles that were injected with the toxin. It was given a simplified name “botox”. Due to the mass media coverage, we decided to investigate the frequency of toxins use in Slovenia, and at the same time to inquire about the awareness of its adverse effects. By reviewing the professional literature, we got to know the topic more detailed, and by making an online survey, we tried to confirm or refute several hypotheses. The results of the survey were statistically processed in the SISA (Simple Interactive Statistical Analysis) web platform and are presented graphically. Final results show that in Slovenia 7,2% of the study cohort (N=306) uses botox for cosmetic purposes. Users (N=22), which are usually between 36 and 50 years old, choose the procedure because it is easy and quick to do. They are satisfied with the results and therefore they choose to repeat the procedure several times. Non-users (N=284), on the other hand, believe that botox users have low self-esteem and an unnatural appearance, and they themselves do not opt for this method because they are satisfied with their look. Poor awareness of the possible adverse effects is almost the same in both groups.
We know that generalizing the results from this diploma thesis to the level of the Slovenian population is almost impossible. To increase the statistical value of the study, more volunteers should be included. Nevertheless, we hope that the findings in our research can be the basis for further research in this area.
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