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Published on: March 1, 2015
Prevalence of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Ana Paula Duca1,2, Rayane Délcia da Silva2, Marcos Ribeiro2
1Speech Therapy Course, IELUSC University, Joinville, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
Insights
Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) affects 69% of children, particularly those with health conditions. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing swallowing disorders in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
Background:
- Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) is a significant concern in pediatric populations.
- Accurate prevalence data and risk factors are essential for effective management.
Approach:
- Systematic literature review and meta-analysis of 31 studies.
- Inclusion of studies using instrumental evaluations like VFSS and FEES.
- Assessment of prevalence and risk factors in children under 12.
Key Points:
- Pooled prevalence of OD estimated at 69% (95% CI: 61%-77%).
- Higher prevalence observed in children with predisposing health conditions.
- Low risk of bias in the majority of included studies (27/31).
Conclusions:
- High prevalence of OD necessitates increased clinical awareness.
- Early identification and tailored interventions are vital for mitigating health risks.
- Further research may be needed to determine OD prevalence in the general pediatric population.
Objective:
This study aims to determine the prevalence of oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) in children, as diagnosed through instrumental evaluation, and to identify associated risk factors.
Methods:
A systematic search was conducted across six databases (Embase, LILACS, LIVIVO, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science), as well as gray literature sources (ASHA, Google Scholar, and ProQuest). Studies involving children (under 12 years of age), diagnosed using instrumental methods such as videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) or fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), were included. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate the prevalence, with heterogeneity assessed through meta-regression. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist.
Results:
A total of 31 studies were included, yielding a pooled prevalence estimate of 69% (95% CI: 61%-77%; I² = 94%). Most studies involved children with predisposing conditions, potentially contributing to an overestimation of OD prevalence in the general pediatric population. Four studies were assessed as having a moderate risk of bias, while 27 were rated as having a low risk of bias.
Conclusion:
The findings suggest a high prevalence of OD, especially in children with underlying health conditions. These results underscore the importance of early diagnosis and tailored interventions to mitigate the health risks associated with deglutition disorders in pediatric populations.
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