Burden of skin diseases: A camp-based cross-sectional study in a tribal area of Maharashtra

Abstract

Background: Skin diseases, though highly prevalent in tribal regions, are not given due importance. Not much research has been done on skin diseases and their management in these areas. The study aimed to describe the prevailing types of skin conditions in the tribal predominant area, Sakwar, in Maharashtra. Materials and Methods: Community Health Workers in the field practice area created awareness about skin diseases and recruited cases to camp on a single day. A total of 384 beneficiaries attended the camp, which was assessed by four qualified dermatologists. Data collected from clinical case sheets and patient interviews were used for the study. Results: Fungal infection was the most prevalent type of skin disease, followed by scabies, eczema, acne, and hyperpigmentation disorders. Conclusion: Skin diseases especially fungal infections should be given due importance in primary healthcare settings. Capacity building of primary care physicians, as well as frontline workers for accurately diagnosing and managing skin conditions, needs to be done.