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Prevalence of otitis media with effusion amongst pre-school children in Malaysia
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical Faculty UKM, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. aminsaim@pksun5.medic.ukm.my
Insights
This study found that 13.8% of Malaysian preschoolers have otitis media with effusion (OME). Bottle feeding and higher socioeconomic status were linked to increased OME prevalence in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Audiology
Background:
- Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a common childhood condition affecting hearing and development.
- Understanding OME prevalence in diverse populations is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of otitis media with effusion (OME) in preschool children in urban (Kuala Lumpur) and rural (Kuala Selangor) districts of Malaysia.
- To identify associated risk factors for OME in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional screening of 1097 preschool children aged 5-6 years.
- Diagnosis of OME based on otoscopic findings, Type B tympanometry, and absence of acoustic reflexes.
Main Results:
- Overall OME prevalence was 13.8%.
- Prevalence was higher in Kuala Lumpur (17.9%) compared to Kuala Selangor (9.48%).
- Bottle feeding and high socioeconomic status were significantly associated with higher OME incidence.
Conclusions:
- OME is prevalent in Malaysian preschoolers, with urban-rural disparities observed.
- Infant feeding practices and parental socioeconomic status are key factors influencing OME risk.
- Further research into OME prevention strategies tailored to identified risk factors is warranted.
Abstract:
A cross-sectional screening test was done to determine the prevalence of otitis media with effusion amongst, preschool children in two district in Malaysia, namely Kuala Lumpur an urban district and Kuala Selangor a rural district. It involved 1097 preschool children aged between 5 and 6 years old. Presence of otitis media effusion (OME) is based on abnormal otoscopic finding, Type B tympanogram and absence of ipsilateral acoustical reflex. The overall prevalence rate of OME was 13.8%. The prevalence in Kuala Lumpur was 17.9%, while in Kuala Selangor it was 9.48%. Bottle feeding during infancy and high socioeconomic status of the parents was statistically associated with higher incidence of OME. Other factors such as race, premature delivery, passive smoking, allergy, asthma and family size, had no influence on the prevalence of otitis media with effusion.
