Cutaneous Fungal Infections in Greek Competitive Swimmers: A Cross-Sectional, Self-Reported Study

TL;DR

This study found that Greek competitive swimmers have a notable rate of fungal skin infections, with risk factors including shared equipment and poor hygiene practices.

Contribution

The study provides the first self-reported data on fungal infections among Greek competitive swimmers and identifies specific behavioral risk factors.

Findings

Tinea pedis was the most common infection, affecting 16% of participants.

Shared kickboards and communal towel placement were linked to higher infection rates.

Family history was a significant predictor for pityriasis versicolor.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Cutaneous fungal infections, specifically tinea pedis, pityriasis versicolor, and tinea unguium (onychomycosis), are common yet under-researched in swimming. This study aimed to evaluate their prevalence and associated risk factors among competitive swimmers in Greece. Methods: An anonymous questionnaire was administered to 1047 participants, comprising parents of minor swimmers and adult athletes. Data collected included demographics, infection history, training characteristics, and hygiene behaviors. Results: The overall prevalence was 16% for tinea pedis, 3.2% for pityriasis versicolor and 3.3% for tinea unguium. Infection rates increased significantly with age and cumulative training years. Behavioral analysis revealed that placing towels and clothes on communal benches was associated with tinea pedis (p = 0.031) and pityriasis versicolor (p < 0.007). Sharing kickboards correlated with all three infections, while sharing flip-flops was specifically linked to tinea pedis and tinea unguium. Family history was a strong predictor for pityriasis versicolor. Conclusions: This study highlights the high prevalence of fungal skin infections in Greek swimmers, likely due to moisture exposure, shared equipment, and specific hygiene habits.

Figures