Seasonal variation in peripheral vestibular disorders based on Korean population data

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Comprehensive population-based studies on seasonal variations in peripheral vestibular disorders are limited.
• Understanding these patterns is crucial for public health strategies and patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the seasonal incidence of major peripheral vestibular disorders using nationwide data from Korea.
• To analyze seasonal variations in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis (VN), and Meniere's disease (MD).

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of Korean National Health Insurance Service data (2008-2020).
• Identification of BPPV, VN, and MD cases using diagnostic and treatment codes.
• Calculation of seasonal incidence rates for each disorder.

Main Results:

• BPPV incidence was higher in spring, autumn, and winter compared to summer.
• VN incidence was lower in winter than in summer.
• MD incidence was higher in spring and autumn, and lower in winter than in summer.
• Significant differences in seasonal variation were observed based on sex and age.

Conclusions:

• Peripheral vestibular disorders, including BPPV, VN, and MD, exhibit significant seasonal variations in the Korean population.
• These seasonal patterns differ across demographic groups (sex and age), highlighting the need for tailored approaches.