Prevalence of Pediculosis and Associated Factors Among Primary School Students in Behbahan County, Iran, in 2023

Authors
Mahnaz Chaboki 1
Marzieh Alamolhoda 1
Mehdi Jamshidi Barmehsabz 1
Ali Jamshidi 2
1 Department of Public Health, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
2 Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
Abstract
Introduction

Pediculosis (head lice infestation) is one of the most common parasitic infestations worldwide, including Iran. It is particularly prevalent in densely populated areas with poor hygiene, such as primary schools. The present study aimed to examine the prevalence of pediculosis and its associated factors among primary school students in Behbahan County in 2023.

Methods

This cross-sectional (descriptive-analytical) study collected data from 1,000 students using pre-designed questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 21, employing Chi-square tests for qualitative variables and t-tests for relationships between quantitative and qualitative variables.

Results

The findings revealed that of the 1,000 students, 545 (54.5%) were boys, and 455 (45.5%) were girls. Significant relationships were observed between head lice prevalence and factors such as maternal education level, history of previous infestation, family size, weekly bathing frequency, hair type, and texture (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were found with paternal education level or grade level.

Conclusion

The study concludes that the high prevalence of pediculosis among Behbahan students may have a negative impact on their academic performance. Educational classes for school administrators, teachers, and parents are recommended to reduce the infestation rate.


Keywords
Pediculosis
Primary Schools
Prevalence
Students
Behbahan