Resumen

DAVILA, Fanny. Prevention and Control of superficial mycosis in Venezuelan Paratroopers. Comunidad y Salud [online]. 2006, vol.4, n.2, pp.3-12. ISSN 1690-3293.

Superficial mycosis are an important health problem in enlisted military personnel. Considering this situation, a study was carried on, as to provide this personnel with a proposal for a health program aimed to the prevention and control of these pathologies. A review of the morbidity register in the Health Care Module of the 42 nd. Paratroopers brigade was performed plus an exam of the Health Care Module of the unit. A structured questionnaire was applied, as to assess the knowledge and personnal experience of the troop with the preventive measures recommended.  Results revealed that specific morbidity for superficial mycosis represents 28.3% within general morbidity. The most frequent mycosis being ringworm and the group mainly affected were low degree troopers. Among methods stablished in the P.A.V. (In Force Anministrative Plan) as preventive measures lectures were performed as much as 75%; prophylactic checkups were not performed during January and February and sanitary inspections were completed in 25%. When the structured questionnaire was applied, 58% of the interviewed confirm that mycosis information was receided during lectures; 22% could not fulfill the preventive measures because of time limitations and or problems of water supply. 10% could not apply the recommended treatment because it wasn´t supplied by the unit drugstore. The interviewed suggested as the best means to be informed on superficial mycosis: lectures, pamphlets, videos, posters and billboards.

Palabras clave : Superficial Mycosis; Prevention and Control of Superficial Mycosis; Mycosis Control Program; Mycosis in Paratroopers.