Risk Factors Associated with Head Louse Infestation in Korea.
- Author:
Seobo SIM
1
;
Won Ja LEE
;
Jae Ran YU
;
In Yong LEE
;
Seung Hyun LEE
;
Soo Youn OH
;
Min SEO
;
Jong Yil CHAI
Author Information
- Publication Type:Brief Communication ; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
- Keywords: Pediculus humanus capitis; head louse; risk factor; socioeconomic factor
- MeSH: Animals; Child; Educational Status; Family; Female; Humans; Lice Infestations/*epidemiology/parasitology; Male; Pediculus/*physiology; Questionnaires; Republic of Korea/epidemiology; Risk Factors; Socioeconomic Factors
- From:The Korean Journal of Parasitology 2011;49(1):95-98
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: Head louse infestation (HLI) is one of the most frequently occurring parasitic diseases in children. This study was conducted to investigate the socioeconomic and personal factors influencing HLI in the Republic of Korea. A total of 2,210 questionnaires about various factors related to HLI were obtained from children in 17 primary schools throughout the country. The rate of HLI was significantly lower in children who lived together with mother or in a family where both parents worked. In addition, HLI was lower in children whose fathers or mothers were public officers or teachers. However, HLI was higher in children who had small families and washed their hair less often. Education levels of parents and the number of children in family were not significant. Improvement of socioeconomic factors and personal hygiene will be helpful for reducing HLI.
