Occupational Dermatoses in Parachute Riggers: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Occupational Health
• Military Medicine

Background:

• Parachute riggers, specialized tradesmen, face occupational dermatoses risks.
• Previous studies have not investigated hand and nail conditions in this population.
• The demanding nature of parachute packing involves significant manual labor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document and characterize hand and nail abnormalities in parachute riggers.
• To identify common dermatological diseases affecting this occupational group.
• To analyze the relationship between employment duration and observed changes.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-six consenting parachute riggers from the Paratrooper Training School (PTS), Agra, India, were enrolled.
• Participants underwent examination for hand and nail changes using a hand-lens, with medical histories recorded.
• Statistical analysis was performed using R-Project for Statistical Computing.

Main Results:

• Callosities (80.2%) and loss of cuticle (75%) were the most prevalent abnormalities.
• Other common findings included pitted scars (31.5%), xeroderma (30.2%), and pigmentary changes (27.6%).
• Dermatitis (21%) and onychomycosis were the most frequent diseases observed; callosities decreased with age.

Conclusions:

• Observed hand and nail changes are primarily attributed to repetitive friction, pressure, and hand dryness.
• The incidence of these conditions can be significantly reduced through adequate corrective measures.
• Recommendations include the use of barrier creams, quality gloves, and comprehensive health education.