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Risk factors for fatal pneumonia: a case control study.
N Deivanayagam1, K Nedunchelian, S Ramasamy
1Clinical Epidemiology Unit (CEU), Institute of Child Health, Egmore, Madras.
Indian Pediatrics
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Associated illnesses, congenital anomalies, young age, and malnutrition significantly increase the risk of death in children hospitalized with acute pneumonia. Early clinical intervention for these factors is crucial for reducing mortality.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Acute pneumonia remains a leading cause of mortality in hospitalized children.
- Identifying specific risk factors is crucial for effective clinical management and public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and quantify risk factors associated with death in children hospitalized with acute pneumonia.
- To inform early intervention strategies aimed at reducing pediatric pneumonia mortality.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study was conducted with 70 deceased patients (cases) and 140 recovered patients (controls).
- Univariate and logistic regression analyses were employed to determine significant risk factors.
Main Results:
- Associated illnesses (Odds Ratio [OR] 51.6), age under 6 months (OR 6.5), marasmic status (OR 5.8), and congenital anomalies (OR 3.8) were significant predictors of death.
- Severe pneumonia and lobar pneumonia also showed increased odds of mortality, though not all reached statistical significance in logistic regression.
Conclusions:
- Associated illnesses, congenital anomalies, young age (under 6 months), and marasmic status are critical risk factors for mortality in pediatric acute pneumonia.
- Clinicians should prioritize early identification and management of these factors to improve outcomes and minimize deaths.