Prevalence and associated risk factors of marine organism injuries among fishermen in coastal Fujian, China.

Marine organism injuries constitute a persistent occupational hazard for fishermen, yet epidemiological data describing their occurrence and determinants remain limited. We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 943 fishermen in coastal areas of Fujian Province, China, between July 2023 and July 2024 to assess injury prevalence, clinical manifestations, and associated risk factors. Injury history was reported by all participants, with nearly half (44.11%) experiencing medium-frequency injuries (4-6 episodes). Stingrays, jellyfish, and echinoderms were the most commonly reported causative organisms. Local manifestations were predominantly characterized by burning sensation, numbness, and pain, while myalgia was the most frequently reported systemic symptom. Sequelae were reported by the majority of injured fishermen. Fishing net repair showed a significant exposure-response relationship with injury frequency. Mariculture, seafood retail, vessel equipment maintenance and repair, and working while sick were identified as independent risk factors for high-frequency injuries (7-10 episodes). Working in shallow waters (OR = 0.63) and during April-June (OR = 0.24) were associated with a lower risk of medium-frequency injuries, while working during October-December (OR = 0.24) reduced the risk of high-frequency injuries. These findings highlight the substantial burden and recurrence of marine organism injuries among fishermen in Fujian Province and underscore the need for coordinated preventive measures integrating occupational safety management, targeted health education, and accessible medical support.