Risk Factors Associated with Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media in Children.

Abstract: Introduction: Chronic suppurative otitis media is one of the foremost infections that cause disabling hearing loss among children in underdeveloped countries, ultimately leading to speech delay and a negative impact on children's intellect and mental health. Objective: To identify the risk factors associated with chronic suppurative otitis media, for early detection of disease and prevention of its complications. Methodology: It prospective study was conducted at the Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat, Suleman Roshan Medical College, Tando Adam, Sindh, from January 2022 to July 2022. All the children ≤ 15 years with a history of chronically discharging ears were included after parental consent. A detailed history was taken and a comprehensive ENT examination was done. Patients with co-existing external ear infections, congenital anomalies, and a history of previous ear surgery were excluded. Results: A total of 396 children participated with male preponderance. The majority of the patients were residents of rural areas. The unilateral and mucosal diseases were more prevailed. The commonest communal co morbidity was a nasal allergy. Other risk factors included rural area residency, the low literacy rate of parents, particularly mothers, and high exposure to passive smoking.  Conclusion: The occurrence of chronic suppurative otitis media is highly curable by spreading public education about child health care especially the institution of hygienic living conditions and avoidance of exposure to possible allergens especially tobacco smoke.   Keywords: Eustachian tube, Chronic suppurative otitis media, hearing impairment.