Poverty And The Rising Resistance In Fungal Skin Infections: A Ground Reality From Our Region
Antifungal resistance is often discussed in scientific journals and conferences as a pharmacological or microbiological problem. On the ground, however, especially in South Asian regions like Pakistan, the roots of this crisis lie far deeper. Poverty remains the single most powerful driver behind the increasing burden and resistance of tinea and other fungal skin infections. In low-income communities, overcrowding is a daily reality. Multiple family members often share small living spaces, clothing, towels, and bedding. This environment is ideal for the spread of dermatophyte infections. Add to this limited access to clean water, inadequate sanitation, and poor hygiene facilities, and fungal infections become not just common, but persistent. Healthcare access is another critical factor. Poverty restricts timely consultation with qualified dermatologists. Many patients rely on over-the-counter medications, unregulated combination creams, or advice from non-medical sources. Inapprop...