A Survey on the Perception and Behavior Regarding Tinea Pedis among Korean Adults
- Author:
Minkyung CHO
1
;
Yang Won LEE
;
Dong Hun LEE
;
Ki-Heon JEONG
;
Soon Hyo KWON
;
Jung Eun KIM
;
Hyojin KIM
;
Chan Ho NA
;
Hyun-Min SEO
;
Min Kyung SHIN
;
Jiyoung AHN
;
Yu Ri WOO
;
Ga-Young LEE
;
Yong Hyun JANG
;
Hye Jung JUNG
;
Yu Sung CHOI
;
Tae Young HAN
;
Ha-Eun LEE
;
Chan Yl BANG
;
Mi Woo LEE
;
Dong Hyun KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Dermatology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Korean Journal of Dermatology
2023;61(7):420-428
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:Dermatophyte infection is one of the most common skin diseases affecting the skin, hair, and nails. Despite widespread recognition of the disease, missing details and misperceptions are commonplace in the general population.
Objective:This study aimed to investigate the public perception and behavior regarding dermatophytosis of the hands and feet.
Methods:This results from an online survey conducted between July 2022 and August 2022. The survey included 1,000 Korean participants aged 20 to 69 years, of whom 60% experienced symptoms of tinea pedis or onychomycosis. The questionnaire focused on the awareness and personal experience of tinea pedis and perception of the treatment of dermatophytosis.
Results:Of the 1,000 participants, nearly 80% regarded tinea pedis as a common skin condition by which anyone can be affected. Furthermore, 88.4% had heard that the treatment of tinea pedis could be harmful, causing skin rash (60.4%) and worsening liver function (48.5%). Among 896 participants who noticed suspicious symptoms, 81.2% did not visit the clinic because it was not severe (50.1%) and seemed easily manageable (25.7%). Of the respondents, 84.4% preferred to meet dermatologists rather than non-dermatologist doctors regarding skin diseases, mainly because of trust in experts and belief in a faster cure.
Conclusion:Providing accurate and detailed information via online media, educational campaigns, and medical papers can rectify misconceptions and improve patient appliance, contributing to public skin health.
