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Prevalence of Tinea pedis in military personnel: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Summary

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection affecting the feet that is especially prevalent in military personnel due to their unique living and working conditions. This comprehensive analysis of 25 studies found that about 17% of military personnel worldwide have tinea pedis, with higher rates in hot and humid climates like the Americas and Australia. The infection is promoted by factors such as tight military boots, shared facilities, sweating, and poor foot hygiene. The study recommends better footwear, improved hygiene practices, and more effective diagnostic methods to reduce this health problem in military populations.

Background

Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection affecting the feet caused by dermatophytes. Military personnel are particularly vulnerable due to unique environmental and behavioral factors including close quarters, humid conditions, and prolonged use of tight, non-breathable footwear.

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the global prevalence of tinea pedis among military personnel and explore factors contributing to its high occurrence in this population.

Results

Twenty-five studies involving military personnel from different regions were analyzed. The pooled prevalence of tinea pedis was 17% (95% CI: 12–23%), with highest prevalence in the Americas and Australia. Studies using both microscopy and fungal culture reported higher prevalence (20%) compared to microscopy alone (9%).

Conclusion

Tinea pedis remains a significant health concern among military personnel with a global prevalence of 17%. Preventive strategies including improved foot hygiene, better footwear design, and enhanced access to antifungal treatments are essential to reduce prevalence in military settings.
  • Published in:BMC Public Health,
  • Study Type:Meta-analysis,
  • Source: PMID: 40993673, DOI: 10.1186/s12889-025-24308-5
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