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Pacifiers and dental structure as risk factors for otitis media
M Niemelä1, M Uhari, A Hannuksela
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Oulu, Finland.
International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|April 1, 1994
Summary
Pacifier use increases the risk of recurrent ear infections (acute otitis media) in young children. This association persists even when accounting for mouth breathing and dental issues like open bite.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Otolaryngology
- Dental Medicine
Background:
- Recurrent acute otitis media (AOM) is a common childhood illness.
- Factors influencing AOM risk, including environmental and behavioral aspects, require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between pacifier use, sucking habits, dentition, and the incidence of acute otitis media (AOM) in a cohort of 5-year-old children.
Main Methods:
- A historic cohort survey involving 944 children aged 5 years.
- Parental questionnaires collected data on AOM history, sucking habits, and physician-diagnosed atopic/allergic diseases.
- Dental status was assessed by local dentists.
Main Results:
- Pacifier use was linked to a higher risk of recurrent AOM (Risk Ratio [RR] 1.43, P=0.02).
- Mouth breathing (RR 1.87, P=0.01) and open bite (RR 1.36, P=0.04) were significantly associated with AOM.
- The population attributable risk for AOM due to pacifier use was estimated at 0.7 attacks per child.
Conclusions:
- Pacifier use is a significant risk factor for recurrent acute otitis media in children.
- The association between pacifier use and AOM remains significant even after adjusting for mouth breathing and malocclusion.