Prevalence and Demographic Distribution of Subcutaneous Mycoses among Rice Farmers in Ayamelum LGA, Nigeria

Abstract

Subcutaneous mycoses are chronic fungal infections acquired through traumatic implantation of environmental fungi into the skin and subcutaneous tissues. They predominantly affect rural agricultural populations in tropical regions, where occupational exposure and limited access to healthcare contribute to delayed diagnosis and prolonged morbidity. This study determined the prevalence and demographic distribution of subcutaneous mycoses among rice farmers in Ayamelum Local Government Area (L.G.A.), Anambra State, Nigeria. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 rice farmers selected from six towns within the L.G.A. Participants were clinically screened for subcutaneous lesions, and laboratory analyses were performed to confirm fungal infections and identify isolates. Demographic and occupational data were collected using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to determine associations, with significance set at p<0.05. Of the 407 farmers screened, 75 (18.4%) presented with suspected lesions, and 39 (9.6%) were laboratory-confirmed cases. The highest prevalence based on confirmed cases was observed in Omor (100% of suspected cases) and Umumbo (93.8%). Males showed a slightly higher infection rate (53.7%) than females (50%), with Trichosporon asahii significantly more prevalent among males (p<0.05). Farmers aged ≥60 years constituted the highest proportion of affected individuals (26.7%). Lesions were most commonly located at the ankle (37.3%) and limbs (32.0%), and 60% had persisted for more than 12 months. Significant geographic variation (p<0.05) was observed in the distribution of fungal isolates, including Meyerozyma carpophila, Trichosporon asahii, Mucor indicus, and Penicillium brasilianum. The study demonstrates a notable burden of subcutaneous mycoses among rice farmers in Ayamelum L.G.A., with clear occupational and demographic patterns. These findings underscore the need for targeted health education, early diagnostic services, and preventive strategies to reduce disease burden among high-risk agricultural workers in southeastern Nigeria.