Prevalence of superficial fungal infections among sports-active individuals: results from the Achilles survey, a review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of sport activities on the prevalence of foot disease in the Achilles survey, conducted during the spring of 1997 and 1998 in several European countries.

SUBJECT: Foot diseases, especially fungal infections (tinea pedis and onychomycosis).

METHODS

A questionnaire and a clinical examination regarding individuals presenting to a general practitioner for disorders irrespective of possible foot problems.

RESULTS

More than 50% of subjects visiting a general practitioner had clinical evidence of foot disease, and approximately two-thirds of these had clinical evidence of a superficial fungal infection. The survey evidenced a significant age-dependent association between sporting activities and the prevalence of foot diseases and superficial fungal infection, especially in children.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this pan-European survey indicate that sporting activities can have an unfavourable effect on the individual regarding the occurrence of foot disease and superficial fungal infection. The results indicate a need to pay more attention to foot disease, to predict and prevent future diseases and further complications.