Influence of occupational activity on cutaneous infections caused by pathogenic agents in Alto Grande, Cascol Parish, 2023
Abstract
Skin infections represent a significant health burden, especially in rural areas, due to their frequency, recurrence, and complex clinical presentations, where early diagnosis is important. The objective was to assess the influence of occupational activity on the presence of skin infections caused by pathogenic agents in the population of Alto Grande, Cascol parish, during 2023. A descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective, and explanatory study was conducted. A census sample of 72 recorded cases meeting specific criteria was included. The prevalence of skin infections was 2.4%, stratified as 1.33% for livestock farming and 1.06% for agriculture. Eight pathogens were identified, with fungal agents predominating significantly (p = 0.0141): 55.6% in livestock workers and 44.4% in agricultural workers. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 12.5% of cases, Leishmania spp. in 1.4% of livestock workers, and Malassezia in 3.4% of agricultural workers. A significant association was found between occupational activity and infection profile by sex: tinea in male agricultural workers (p = 0.0264) and pyoderma in female livestock workers (p = 0.0335). Age-stratified analysis showed no statistical associations. The findings indicate a differential occupational impact on skin infections, with a high fungal burden. Occupational surveillance and health education are recommended to reduce risks and future recurrences
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