An Overview of Cockroach Infestations in Urban Communities and Their Implications on Public Health: A Systematic Review

Insect and Public Health

Abstract

Cockroaches are among the hardy urban pests that can be found in homes, grocery stores, public areas, and landfills, creating serious problems for the environment and human health. This study's main goal is to present a comprehensive overview of cockroaches as urban pests, with implications for public health, and current management techniques. Findings of this analysis showed that cockroaches are carriers of allergens that exacerbate respiratory ailments as well as disease pathogens like Salmonella and Escherichia coli.  The study also revealed that high infestation rates in dense urban areas have been reported, that 39% to over 80% of residential units being infested. The dominant species in urban settings is the German cockroach (Blatella germanica), as the most prevalent species (often greater than 80% of the trapped cockroaches), especially in apartments, kitchens, and hospitals. Other common species include the American (Periplaneta americana) and Brown-banded (Supella longipalpa).  The study revealed that factors such as structural disrepair- older buildings (10 years plus have higher infestation rates (74.4%) compared to newer area settings (53.99%). In order to lower health hazards and increase quality of life in urban environments, cockroach infestations necessitate interdisciplinary cooperation, better sanitation, public education, and proactive urban design.