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

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