Worldwide Prevalence of Head Lice

Sample size: 55 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Falagas Matthew E., Matthaiou Dimitrios K., Rafailidis Petros I., Panos George, Pappas Georgios

Primary Institution: Alfa Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Athens, Greece

We sought to synthesize the available evidence regarding the worldwide prevalence of lice infestation in the 21st century.

Pediculosis capitis is widespread throughout the world and does not discriminate based on socioeconomic status.

Prevalence varied from 0.7% to 59% and was higher in girls and women.
In Europe, prevalence varied from 0.48% to 22.4%.
Data from Africa showed prevalence varied from 0% to 58.9% and was higher in females.
In the Americas, prevalence varied from 3.6% to 61.4% and was higher in females.
Only 1 study has been performed in Oceania, reporting a prevalence of 13%.

Head lice are found all over the world, and they can affect anyone, not just kids from poor families.

A literature search of PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted for studies on pediculosis from January 1, 2000, to January 18, 2008.

Variations in reported prevalence can result from different survey methods and seasonal timing.

Most studies underestimate overall prevalence by assessing it in a specific timeframe.

Most studies referred to schoolchildren, but some involved refugees, urban slums, child labor, jails, orphanages, and fishing communities.

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website