What factors contribute to a higher frequency of skin infections among adults in Mauritius?

Abstract

Introduction: Given the rise in the prevalence of skin infections in many countries and the lack of published data pertaining to the prevalence and awareness of skin infection in Mauritius, this survey is the first of its kind to provide data on this issue. The aim of this study is to describe the association of skin infection with various predisposing factors such as socioeconomic status, personal hygiene and level of awareness and to assess the impact of skin infections on quality of life. Material and Methods: A stratified sample of 500 adults was randomly selected for this study. Subjects were administered a questionnaire to elicit information on sociodemographic factors, awareness, family history and prevalence of skin infections. Quality of life was investigated by a validated questionnaire (DLQI). SPSS Software and Microsoft Excel were used to analyse data. Results: Among 500 participants, 166 (33%) cases of skin infections were obtained. Acne was found to be more prevalent (n=59). It was found that skin infection varies with gender and higher prevalence was observed during summer as compared to winter (p=0.017). It was noted that family history and income level were associated with an increase incidence of skin infection (p=0.000). With respect to quality of life, psychological distress was mostly affected. Conclusion: Acne was found to be more prevalent. Respondents with middle income status were mostly affected with skin infection. Those with a family history were more prone to skin infection. The Quality of Life index was found to be an efficient method in assessing the impact of skin infection on the respondents' lives.

Superficial mycoses, a matter of concern: Global and Indian scenario‐an updated analysis

“…226,227 Lack of awareness of risk factors contributes significantly to the development of mycotic skin infections. 228 In developing countries, these infections may get transmitted from one person to another by sharing common household things and fomites (hat, comb, scarf, etc) as well as due to overcrowded human settings. 229 This has been further supported by one of the studies where contact was observed to be a possible source of infection in 48% of studied cases, whereas trauma contributed to 23%.…”

“…The major risk factors responsible for the high frequency of superficial mycosis include age, underlying diseases, suppressed immunity and obesity 226,227 . Lack of awareness of risk factors contributes significantly to the development of mycotic skin infections 228 . In developing countries, these infections may get transmitted from one person to another by sharing common household things and fomites (hat, comb, scarf, etc) as well as due to overcrowded human settings 229 .…”

Review of fungal skin infections and their invasion

“…The skin infection has a high prevalence rate which reaches up to 80 % in developing countries (Ramamuthie et al, 2015). Lack of awareness and understanding of risk factors for skin infection is a major reason for the development of skin infections (Goonmatee and Rajesh, 2013). The skin works as a mechanical barrier which limits the invasion and growth of pathogenic fungi (Harder et al, 1997).…”