OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the epidemiological characteristics and influencing factors of skin diseases among soldiers performing duties and working in tunnel environments, and to propose targeted preventive and therapeutic measures.

METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 537 soldiers from multiple sites within a military unit from Nov. 2022 to Oct. 2023. The survey collected data on general information, living habits, and details of current skin diseases, including types, symptoms, duration and treatment status. Logistic regression analysis was applied to identify risk factors for the skin diseases observed.

RESULTS A total of 21 types of skin diseases were identified, with dermatophyte infections being the most prevalent (59.96%, 322/537), followed by acne (26.82%, 144/537). Further analysis revealed that the incidence of dermatophyte infections was closely associated with the region where the soldiers were stationed OR(95%CI)=1.694(1.062, 2.693), P=0.032and the frequency of sock washing OR(95%CI)=1.734(1.023, 2.988), P=0.043, but no significant correlation was found between the prevalence of dermatophyte infections and the frequency of washing feet OR(95%CI)=1.520(0.836, 2.824), P=0.175.

CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the epidemiological characteristics and key risk factors for skin diseases among soldiers in tunnel environments. Targeted prevention strategies are proposed, providing valuable scientific evidence for the prevention and control of skin diseases in similar environments.