Onychomycosis and Lifestyle: A Survey Study Correlating Patient Habits with Infection

Onychomycosis is a common fungal infection of the nails, significantly impacting patients' quality of life and posing a public health concern due to its prevalence and treatment challenges. This study aimed to determine the association between specific lifestyle factors and the risk of developing toenail onychomycosis.

This cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted from July 2023 to August 2023 and involved a sample of 202 patients aged 18 years or older. The survey assessed exposure to lifestyle factors including footwear habits, hygiene practices, and toenail care routines.

Of the 202 participants, 102 were clinically diagnosed with onychomycosis. Onychomycosis was associated with wearing closed-toe shoes (OR 1.71, 95% CI: 0.39-7.73, p = 0.78, Q = 0.73), walking barefoot in public areas (OR 4.77, 95% CI: 1.38-19.23, p = 0.02, Q = 0.07), and toenail trauma (OR 3.33, 95% CI: 1.41-8.28, p < 0.01, Q = 0.06). Protective factors included wearing clean socks (OR 0.07, 95% CI: 0.00-0.46, p = 0.02, Q = 0.07) and trimming nails regularly (OR 0.44, 95% CI: 0.13-1.48).

This study identifies associations between certain lifestyle practices and onychomycosis. Educating patients on proper foot hygiene and footwear choices can help reduce the incidence of this condition. Further research is needed to explore additional preventive strategies.