Knowledge and Practices of the Jeddah Population Towards Tinea Pedis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Tinea pedis is a widespread fungal infection that primarily affects the feet, with risk factors including excessive sweating and tight-fitting footwear. Preventive measures, such as maintaining clean and dry feet and wearing sandals in moist environments, are key in preventing its occurrence. Despite its prevalence and preventability, there is limited research on the knowledge and practices related to tinea pedis in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

A cross-sectional study was conducted through a validated questionnaire among 696 Jeddah residents utilizing Google Forms that were distributed online via social media. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling. Collected data was analyzed using Statistical Software for Social Science (SPSS) version 27.

The results revealed that most participants were unaware of tinea pedis (70.3%) and its risk factors (75.7%) and symptoms (74.6%). Diabetes mellitus was the most frequently selected risk factor, identified by 81.8% of participants from the list provided in the questionnaire. Only 33.3% examined their feet regularly, while 79.5% used nail scissors and 54.7% wore socks regularly. A significant proportion (82.2%) washed their feet three or more times daily. Regular foot examination (odds ratio (OR) = 1.901, p = 0.001) and wearing socks regularly (OR = 1.598, p = 0.027) were significant predictors of awareness, while occupation (unemployed) was also associated with higher odds of awareness (OR = 4.445, p = 0.005). Other factors like age, gender, and education showed no significant association.

Most participants demonstrated significantly poor knowledge of tinea pedis and its risk factors despite its preventable nature. Practices like the regular foot examination and wearing socks were significant predictors of awareness, while lifestyle factors like prolonged sports shoe use and sporadic workouts increased vulnerability. Public health efforts should focus on improving awareness and preventive practices, particularly among high-risk groups such as individuals with diabetes.