A recent Gallup survey found that 78 percent of Americans have no knowledge of rosacea, even though it has become increasingly widespread as the 76 million baby boomers enter their 30s, 40s and 50s -- the most dangerous years for first acquiring this chronic disorder.

Dining out can be especially challenging for many rosacea sufferers. But by paying attention to your selection of foods and beverages, you may be able to avoid ordering a rosacea flare-up. Here are some tips to make your meal more pleasurable without bringing home a rosacea doggy bag:

• Choose restaurants that offer rosacea-friendly menus. Many rosacea sufferers must avoid hot spicy foods such as those made with white and black pepper, paprika, red pepper and cayenne. So, in general, avoid restaurants that specialize in that type of cuisine.

To treat rosacea, dermatologists often initially prescribe oral antibiotic tablets to bring the condition under immediate control. However, taking more than one oral medication for different conditions may produce an adverse reaction, according to Dr. H. Irving Katz, professor of dermatology at the University of Minnesota, speaking at a recent meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.

At the height of one of the happiest times of her life, awaiting the birth of her first child, Aimee Skaggs was hit with a devastating facial skin condition.

"All through my pregnancy, my complexion became redder and redder, until it was almost purple," Skaggs said. "I tried not to let it get me down. I was excited about my first child and didn't want to feel as though the only thing I cared about was how I looked."

Coming down with a cold or suffering through allergies this spring may be bad enough. Making matters worse, these conditions also cause rosacea flare-ups in many individuals, according to a recent survey on rosacea and other medical conditions by the National Rosacea Society.

Q. As a rosacea sufferer, which region of the United States is best to live in to avoid tripwires related to weather and climate?

Hollywood's portrayal of rosacea on the big screen has made it to a much smaller one — the computer screen. A website featuring a host of skin conditions in the movies, including rosacea, is online at www.skinema.com, and getting a lot of attention.