Ear Diseases among Primary School Children in Ibadan Metropolis, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Otologic diseases is a common cause of social dysfunction worldwide in otorhinolaryngology practice. This study aimed at determining the prevalence, pattern, sociodemographic features in primary school children in Ibadan. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study of urban groups of private school children with otologic diseases. The study was carried out between October 2017 and March 2018. Data was taken using pretested interviewers assisted questionnaire. Data obtained were collated and statistically analysed using SPSS version 18.0. Results: Prevalence of otologic diseases was 50.7%. There were 56.9% males, and male to female ratio was 1.5:1. Common otologic diseases were 25.8% earwax impaction, 13.7% chronic suppurative otitis media, 10.6% otitis media with effusion, 10.0% foreign body impaction and 8.4% otomycosis. Bilateral otologic diseases in 54.4% were commoner with right otologic diseases accounted for 22.7% while left otologic diseases accounted for 21.9%. Common clinical features were hearing impairment, ear discharge, itching, aural blockage, earwax and tympanic membrane perforation in 40.3%, 38.7%, 34.2%, 26.8%, 26.0% and 22.1% respectively. The most frequent type of hearing impairment was the conductive hearing loss in 34%. Type A tympanometry (standard) was the most characteristic findings in 49.5%. Pure tone audiometry revealed 17.0% mild, 4.3% moderate and 1.8% moderate-severe hearing impairment. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of otologic diseases and resultant hearing impairment in this study. The causes are preventable. Therefore, the need for sensitization of the community and policymaker towards early detection and treatment.