Environmental Health Research Center (EHRC), Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, I.R. Iran , iamouei1966@gmail.com
Abstract: (108 Views)
Background:Lice are widespread on a global scale and afflict all socioeconomic classes. The infestation of humans by lice is commonly called pediculosis. Despite advancements in health and medical science, human lice are still a health problem. Therefore, the present study investigated the prevalence of pediculosis and its related factors from 2016-2022 in Babol City, Iran.
Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, the information of individuals who referred to comprehensive urban and rural health centers, health centers and health houses of Babol City and affiliated hospitals for the purpose of investigating the trend of pediculosis between 2016 and 2022 was extracted from the county health center of Babol City. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 23. To compare qualitative variables, the chi-square test was used. P< 0.05 was considered significant.
Results:According to the results, there were 66197 cases of pediculosis from 2016 to 2022 in Babol City, Iran. Moreover, pediculosis was 4.44 times more common in females than males and 2.31 times more common in rural areas, compared to urban areas. It is worth mentioning that the highest infection rate was related to the 6-12 year age group. The general prevalence of lice infestation was 20.86% in spring, in summer 21.92%, 36.73% in autumn and 20.47% in winter. Study's results showed that the most commonly used treatment was permethrin shampoo and dimethicone lotion. Conclusion:The results show that age, gender, and place of residence are important variables in the prevalence of pediculosis. Educating people about identifying the growth stages of head lice (nits, nymphs, and adults) and methods of preventing and treating parasites and observing personal hygiene, especially in children, can significantly affect the prevalence of pediculosis.
Mohseni M, Mehdinia M, Gholami Z, Amouei A. Investigating the epidemiological trend of pediculosis from 2016 to 2022 in Babol city, Iran. CRMS 2024; 8 (2) :45-54 URL: http://crms.mubabol.ac.ir/article-1-198-en.html