TITLE:
Prison Dermatoses in Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso: Prevalence, Clinical Profiles, and Associated Factors
AUTHORS:
Fagnima Traoré, Solo Traoré, Ad Bafa Ibrahim Ouattara, Abdoul Kader Savadogo, Tôh Sib, Nongoba Sawadogo, Hervé Tiéno, Lassané Zoungrana, Réné Bognounou, Oumar Guira, Nessine Nina Korsaga/Somé
KEYWORDS:
Dermatoses, Prison Setting, Prevalence, Associated Factors, Burkina Faso, Prison Health
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications,
Vol.15 No.4,
November
5,
2025
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Dermatoses in prison settings represent a neglected public health issue, particularly in low-resource countries. No data were available regarding the dermatological profile of inmates at the Ouahigouya Prison and Correctional Facility (MACO). This study aimed to determine the prevalence, clinical patterns, and associated factors of dermatoses in this population. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 16 to 18, 2019, among 149 inmates out of the 168 present at MACO. A complete dermatological examination was performed by a dermatologist. Sociodemographic data, detention conditions, and hygiene practices were collected. Statistical analyses were performed using Fisher’s exact test (significance threshold p Results: The overall prevalence of dermatoses was 53.0%. The population was predominantly male (98.7%), young (mean age 29.9 years), with a low educational level (53.2% unschooled), and mainly working in the informal sector (91.1%). Twenty-six distinct conditions were identified. Inflammatory dermatoses (36.7%) were the most frequent, mainly acne (31.6% of inmates). Infectious skin diseases accounted for 34.2% of cases, with mycoses being predominant (pityriasis versicolor: 17.7%). Parasitic dermatoses, including scabies, were uncommon (2.5%). A significant association was found between acne and the 20 - 29 age group (p Conclusion: This study highlights a high prevalence of dermatoses in the prison setting of Ouahigouya, influenced by socioeconomic, environmental, and demographic factors. An integrated approach, including screening, improved hygiene, access to medical care, and better living conditions, is essential for skin health and the well-being of prisoners.