Prevalence and factors associated with tinea capitis among school-age children in University of Gondar comprehensive and specialized hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Tinea capitis is a dermatophyte infection of the scalp and hair. It is most commonly observed in children between the ages of 3 and 14 years. Transmission is increased with decreased personal hygiene, overcrowding, and low socioeconomic status Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with tinea capitis in school-age children in the University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital, North West Ethiopia 2021. Methods: Institutional-based cross-sectional study design was implemented among 285 children in the UGCSH from July 1 to September 30 2021 using a systematic random sampling technique. Data was collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire which was pretested and used the physical examination. The collected data was entered into epi info 7 and then entered and analyzed by SPSS version 20. Variables with a p-value less than or equal to 0.2 in binary logistic regression were included in multivariable logistic regressions. The associations and their strength were presented using odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval. The significance was declared at a pvalue of less than 0.05. The Goodness of fit was checked using Hosmer and Lemeshow test. The result of the analysis was presented using tables, charts, graphs, and texts Results: The prevalence of tinea capitis among school aged children was 62.8% (CI: 56.9%-68.4%). Tinea capitis is significantly associated with age between 7-10 (AOR=4.72 95% CI: (2.12,10.57)) and between 3-6 (AOR= 4, 95% CI: (1.82,8.79)) and monthly family income of 1001-3000 (AOR=4.89, 95% CI: (2.13-11.25)) and 3001-5000 (AOR= 2.4, 95% CI: (1.05-5.47)) Conclusions: The prevalence of tinea capitis in this study was high. Age and monthly family income were significantly associated with the prevalence of tinea capitis. Making drugs available at UGCSH and pharmacies found in the town that is used to treat tinea capitis at an affordable price so that every family can buy and use the medications. Doing so may lead to a decrease in the prevalence of tinea capitis Key-words: Prevalence, Tinea Capitis, school-age children, University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital