Foot Mycoses Among Tanzanian Footballers: A Clinico‐Epidemiological Study
Andrew Mhando, Roderick Hay, Erick Kitira, Alya Said, Mike Mboneko, Ousmane Faye, Kamilya Mzee, Millcent M. Nyange, Angela Mushi, Rune Nathaniel Philemon, Charles Muiruri, Daudi MavuraABSTRACT
Background
Superficial foot mycoses (SFM), including onychomycosis and tinea pedis, are common fungal infections among athletes, particularly professional footballers, owing to repetitive trauma, occlusive footwear, communal facilities, and hygiene practices. These infections may cause discomfort, nail deformity, and impaired athletic performance.
Objectives
To determine the prevalence, clinical spectrum, and factors associated with SFM among professional footballers in the Tanzanian Premier League between 13th August 2024 to 12th August 2025.
Methods
A community‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 314 professional footballers from 13 Premier League clubs (9 males and 4 females). Clinical examinations and KOH microscopy were performed at Mwananyamala Regional Referral Hospital, Dar es Salaam. Socio‐demographic and clinical data were collected using structured questionnaires and checklists. Modified Poisson regression was used to identify factors associated with SFM.
Results
The overall prevalence of SFM was 36.9%. Onychomycosis occurred in 17.2%, tinea pedis in 12.4%, and co‐infections in 7.3%. Distal and lateral subungual onychomycosis (16.9%) and interdigital tinea pedis (12.4%) were the predominant clinical forms. Inter‐toe maceration (48.3%), toenail dystrophy (45.7%), and itchiness (44.0%) were the most frequent symptoms. Significant associated factors included toenail trauma (APR = 2.00, p < 0.001), sharing socks (APR = 1.42, p = 0.032), communal shower use (APR = 2.98, p = 0.007), and family history of SFM (APR = 1.57, p = 0.001).
Conclusion
SFM is highly prevalent among Tanzanian Premier League footballers. Modifiable hygiene practices and environmental exposures significantly increase infection risk, highlighting the need for targeted health education, improved sanitation, and routine screening programs.