Hübner A, John SM, Wilke A, Brans R. Programme for prevention of foot dermatoses in patients with work-related skin diseases: Follow-up data of a prospective cohort study (OCCUPES).
Contact Dermatitis 2024;
90:299-309. [PMID:
37950527 DOI:
10.1111/cod.14453]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
A programme based on health education has been developed to prevent foot dermatoses (FD) in patients with work-related skin diseases (WRSD).
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effectiveness of the programme in a prospective cohort study (OCCUPES).
METHODS
Six and 12 months after completing the programme, follow-up questionnaires were sent to 231 patients with WRSD and FD. Assessments included occupational footwear and foot care, self-reported disease course, and health-related quality of life.
RESULTS
Response to follow-ups was >70%. Wearing functional socks and changing footwear and socks during one work shift increased (all p < 0.001). Complaints about occupational footwear decreased, including sweating and exposure to moisture/wetness. More than 60% reported improved FD while quality of life significantly increased. After 12 months, all foot symptoms were less frequent, including itch (p = 0.009), pain when walking (p = 0.005), pain in rest (p = 0.015) and smell (p = 0.001). The programme received very good ratings by the participants.
CONCLUSIONS
The intervention was effective in improving occupational footwear, foot care and preventive behaviour. It resulted in a reduced burden of FD and should be implemented in the general care of patients with WRSD.
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