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Research Journal of Medical Sciences

ISSN: Online 1993-6095
ISSN: Print 1815-9346
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Incidence of Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders in Children: A Prospective Observational Study from Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Gujarat

Hardev R. Mori, Arvind Kucha, Mehul Tejabhai Patelia and Sanket A. Shah
Page: 186-193 | Received 14 Nov 2023, Published online: 30 Nov 2023

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https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2023.11.186.193

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Abstract

Diseases affecting the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) account for a substantial portion of medical conditions globally, particularly in resource‐limited settings. Despite their prevalence, ENT diseases have historically been overlooked by global health initiatives. Pediatric populations, constituting a significant segment globally, face a notable burden of ENT disorders, influenced by factors such as the absence of routine screening programs, educational gaps, poverty, malnutrition and limited healthcare access. Understanding the prevalence of ENT diseases in children is crucial for designing effective healthcare services, especially considering the variability observed across different periods and regions. This prospective observational study spanned one year in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Gujarat, India, analyzing 5832 children aged 0‐18 seeking care in the Pediatric/ENT department. Demographic information, clinical history and examination findings were documented. Standardized protocols guided diagnosis, including otoscopy, nasal examination and throat examination. Data were analyzed based on age, gender, socioeconomic status and seasons using descriptive statistics and Chi‐square tests. Ear disorders predominated (76.29%), with Acute/chronic suppurative otitis media being the most prevalent (40.66%). Throat disorders constituted 15.84%, with tonsillitis prevalent (29.55%). Rhinitis (49.67%) dominated nose disorders. Males showed a higher incidence of ear disorders and socio‐economic status significantly influenced disorder prevalence. Seasonal variations were observed, with ear disorders peaking in summer. Epistaxis exhibited seasonal fluctuations, aligning with increased occurrences during summer and spring. This study provides comprehensive insights into pediatric ENT disorders, emphasizing the prominence of ear disorders, notable gender and socio‐economic variations and seasonal trends. Understanding these patterns is crucial for tailored healthcare planning and resource allocation. The findings underscore the need for context‐specific interventions, including School Health Services, health education and socioeconomic improvement to alleviate the burden of pediatric ENT disorders in Gujarat, India.

How to cite this article:

Hardev R. Mori, Arvind Kucha, Mehul Tejabhai Patelia and Sanket A. Shah. Incidence of Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders in Children: A Prospective Observational Study from Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Gujarat.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2023.11.186.193
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218/makrjms.2023.11.186.193