Impact of Lifestyle Factors on Chronic Otitis Media in Children Living in Slum Areas

Background: Chronic Otitis Media (COM) is a common community health disorder of childhood in all developing countries. An undiagnosed hearing problem in childhood is a significant issue and can result in delayed language development, behavioral problems, and lifelong hearing disability. Objective: The study aimed to identify the prevalence of COM in children residing in slums and its association with the lifestyle and hygiene beliefs of slum areas.

Methods: The study enrolled 271 slum children from two slums of Delhi, aged between four to fifteen years. The entire study population underwent routine otoscopic examination followed by data collection on socio-demographic variables collected using a questionnaire.

Results: Out of the study population, COM and Otitis media effusion (OME) accounted for 29 (10.8%) cases and 33 (12.3%) cases, respectively. The COM prevalence was higher among boys (19) than girls (10). The current study correlating COM with specific socio-demographic factors found a significant association between maternal education (p< 0.05) and the disease. Also, ear cleaning habits (P<0.001), housing conditions, yearly income, family size, and medical consultation had a significant statistical association with COM (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The study highlights the lower prevalence of COM and also concludes that maternal education and seeking medical consultation have a strong association with COM. Though there is a gradual improvement in the slum community, socio-demographic conditions, and an increase in general awareness. But still, there is a need for more campaigns and awareness-based programs in slums to stop the development of COM at the earliest stage among underprivileged children.