PEDICULOSIS HUMANUS CAPITIS PREVALENCE AS HEALTH PROBLEM IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL OF KARACHI PAKISTAN: A COMMUNITY BASED STUDY
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Keywords
School-based screening, Hygiene practices, Pediculus humanus capitis, Prevention
Abstract
Background: Head lice (Pediculosis humanus capitis) are a significant public health concern globally. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of head lice infestation among elementary school children in Karachi, Pakistan, and identify associated risk factors.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January to May 2023 in randomly selected elementary schools (government and private) in Karachi. A total of 1501 students aged 5-13 years were examined for head lice and nits. Data on demographics, hygiene practices, and family history were collected using a pretested questionnaire with informed consent.
Results: Head lice infestation was identified in 351 (23.4%) participants. Females had a significantly higher prevalence (59.5%) compared to males (40.45%). The highest infestation rate (44%) was observed among children aged 3-4 years, followed by 5-10 years (34.7%) and 10-13 years (20%). Students with parents of lower educational attainment, unemployed fathers, and a history of infestation were more likely to be infested (p<0.001). Infrequent combing (less than daily) and infrequent bathing (once or less per week) were associated with a higher prevalence (p<0.05). Head covering among girls significantly reduced transmission risk (p=0.004). Having lice in other family members were significant risk factors (p<0.05). Itching was the most prevalent symptom (p=0.004). Family size did not significantly influence infestation rates.
Conclusion: Head lice infestation remains a common public health problem among elementary school children in Karachi. The study identified several risk factors, including age, gender, socioeconomic status, hygiene practices, and family history. School-based screening programs, coupled with education on hygiene and transmission prevention, are crucial for controlling head lice infestation in this population.
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Aisha Jabeen
Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University, Pakistan
Mirza Tasawer Baig
Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University, Pakistan Karachi, Pakistan
Sadaf Ibrahim
Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University, Pakistan
Nayel syed
Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University, Pakistan Karachi Pakistan
Samina Sheikh
Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University, Pakistan Karachi, Pakistan
Aiman syed
Karachi Medical and Dental College
Quratulain Pirzada
Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University, Pakistan Jinnah University for Women, Karachi Pakistan
Noorulain Pirzada
Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University, Pakistan Jinnah University for Women, Karachi Pakistan