A Survey of Certified Athletic Trainers: The Report of Skin Infections Incidence
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the common types of skin infections occurring in
United States athletes within the past year and the types of athletes that are most likely to
contract them. Surveys were constructed online and with the National Athletic Trainers'
Association (NATA) help sent out to 1,000 athletic trainers. A total of 151 athletic trainers
completed the survey reporting 213 athletes with skin infections. Data analysis consisted of
using Chi Square to test the frequencies, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The
results revealed a significant difference between the different types of skin infections, the
level of competition and sports most affected, and among the most common method of
contraction. However, there was no significance found between males or females having a
higher probability to contract skin infections. MRSA was the most reported type of skin
infection, having a high incidence rate in almost every level of competition, and mostly
reported in football players. Ringworm was the second most reported skin infection, with a
high number reported in high school athletes, and a high prevalence in wrestlers.
Participants reported that the average length of time to report was < 1 - 2 days and that the
most common method of contraction was person to person (76) next to "unknown" (77). In
conclusion, while additional research needs to be completed to understand the trends in the
different sports teams and methods of contraction, this research agreed with most of the
current literature available. Additionally, as the number of these types of skin infections continue to increase, education for athletes, coaches, and health professionals is imperative
to prevent skin infections from spreading.