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Epidemiology of otitis media in Chinese children
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Kaohsiung Municipal United Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. judith 480127@yahoo.com.tw
Insights
Otitis media affected nearly 10% of young children in Kaohsiung. Prevalence was highest in 3-5 year olds, with genetic factors playing a role.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Otolaryngology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Otitis media is a common childhood illness.
- Understanding its prevalence in specific populations is crucial for public health.
- Early detection and intervention can prevent long-term complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of otitis media in preschool-aged children in Kaohsiung.
- To identify age-specific prevalence rates.
- To explore potential contributing factors like genetics and medical history.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 3013 children aged 3-6 years.
- Examinations conducted by a senior paediatric otolaryngologist.
- Combined use of tympanometric and otoscopic assessments for diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Overall otitis media prevalence was 9.82%.
- Prevalence rates varied by age: 11.3% (3-year-olds), 12.4% (4-year-olds), 11.8% (5-year-olds), and 6.1% (6-year-olds).
- Significant differences in prevalence were observed based on genetic factors and prior otitis media history.
Conclusions:
- Otitis media is a significant health concern in Kaohsiung's young children.
- Age and genetic predisposition are important factors in otitis media development.
- Further research into genetic and environmental influences is warranted.
Abstract:
From May to July 2001, 3013 Chinese children, aged 3-6 years old, from 19 kindergartens in Kaohsiung were examined for the prevalence of otitis media. A senior paediatric otolaryngologist performed examinations. Tympanometric and otoscopic records were combined for assessment of middle ear status. The prevalence rate of otitis media was 9.82% for all children, 5.24% for middle ear effusion and 5.34% for retracted tympanic membrane. The prevalence rates of otitis media in different age groups were as follows: 11.3% for 3-year-olds, 12.4% for 4-year-olds, 11.8% for 5-year-olds, and 6.1% for 6-year-olds. Considering the genetic factors and the previous history of otitis media, there was a significant difference between the normal group and the sick group.