The Prevalence of Hallux Valgus among Three Ethnic Groups in Delta State, Southern Nigeria

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of hallux valgus among Urhobo, Isoko and Delta Ibo (Anioma) ethnic groups in Delta State, Nigeria and to evaluate its influence in age and gender subgroups. Seven hundred and seventy five(775) male and female subjects aged between 10-30 years from Urhobo (257), Isoko (254) and Delta Ibo (262) ethnic groups of Delta State were examined by visual observation of their feet. The data obtained from this study was analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test was utilized to determine hallux valgus association with foot pain. Results obtained showed, hallux valgus was more prevalent in Isoko ethnic group (28.0%) as compared to Urhobo (25.0%) and Delta Ibo (23.3%) ethnic groups. Hallux valgus was more prevalent between the ages of 16 and 20 years for Isoko (35.5%) and Delta Ibo (27.5%) ethnic groups. This result was different for Urhobo ethnic group, were hallux valgus was more prevalent between the age groups 10 and 15 years (23.8%) and 16 and 20 years (25.5%). Mild hallux valgus was observed more prevalent among the three ethnic groups pooling a total of 20.6% for Delta Ibo, 23.0% for Urhobo and 24.0% for Isoko ethnic group. Bunion was also more prevalent among the three ethnic groups (Isoko 28.0%, Urhobo 23.3% and Delta Ibo 23.7%). Corns’ prevalence was also low among the three ethnic groups (Isoko 0.4%, Urhobo 2.3% and Delta Ibo 3.1%). Bilateral hallux valgus (Both feet) was more prevalent among the three ethnic groups (Isoko 17.3%, Urhobo 18.3% and Delta Ibo 17.2%). Unilateral distribution was observed more on the right foot than the left pooling a total of Isoko 5.9%, Urhobo 4.3% and Delta Ibo 3.1%. Foot pain was also associated with the hallux valgus subjects and its association was low between the three ethnic groups (Isoko 3.1%, Urhobo 3.1% and Delta Ibo 1.9%). In conclusion, hallux valgus is more prevalent among females than males and its prevalence increases with age.