نوع مقاله : مقاله پژوهشی
نویسندگان
1 استادیار اقتصاد سلامت گروه بهداشت عمومی، دانشکده بهداشت دانشگاه علوم پزشکی سبزوار
2 دانشجوی پزشکی، کمیته تحقیقات دانشجویی، دانشگاه علوم پزشکی سبزوار، سبزوار، ایران
چکیده
کلیدواژهها
موضوعات
عنوان مقاله [English]
نویسندگان [English]
Background and Aims: Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) infestation is one of the most common ectoparasitic conditions in humans, particularly among school-aged children. It imposes significant psychological, social, and economic burdens on families and healthcare systems. This study aimed to estimate the economic burden of treating head lice infestation in the population covered by Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences in 2022.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using data obtained from the Department of Disease Management. Direct treatment costs (consultation, medications, shampoos, and personnel) and indirect costs (utilities, depreciation, transport, and consumables) were extracted from financial systems. All data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel.
Results: A total of 4,945 cases were identified, corresponding to a prevalence of 7 per 1,000 populations. The majority of cases (68%) were school-aged children (7–15 years), and 89% were female. The total treatment cost was estimated at 17,219,965,070 IRR, with 59% attributed to indirect costs. The average treatment cost per infected individual was approximately 3,482,298 IRR. More than 50% of total costs were related to rural cases.
Conclusion: The findings reveal a considerable economic burden of head lice infestation, especially in rural areas and among schoolchildren. Preventive measures, family education, and improvements in health infrastructure in schools are essential to reduce the overall impact of this condition.
کلیدواژهها [English]
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