Cross-sectional Study on Pattern of Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders among School Children in a Rural Area of West Bengal

Abstract

Background: Ear, Nose and Throat diseases are common in school going children who often miss school due
to these illnesses. ENT diseases have not been given due importance by majority of the school authorities. The
importance of ENT diseases screening is to identify the children at-risk, which may hamper their scholastic
performance, and to refer them for detailed investigation and intervention.
Objectives: 1. To find out the pattern of common Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders among School children. 2. To
find out the association if any regarding ENT morbidities and socio-demographic variables of the parents.
Materials and Methods: The study was a descriptive observational type of cross-sectional design. The school was
chosen by random sampling method. Data were collected by interviewing the school children with a pre-designed
and pretested schedule. Clinical examinations were done with the help of a check list containing the standard
answer and definition of ENT morbidities. Collected data were analysed and proportions and Chi-square test
were done.
Results: Among study population 52.6% were female and most of the children (63.5%) were < 14 years of age
group. 61.6% having some form of ENT morbidities. Literacy status of parents and economic condition of the
family were significantly associated with ENT morbidities.
Conclusion: Urgent need for health education and regular Ear, Nose and Throat check-up among the school
children to increase their level of awareness and knowledge regarding ENT diseases and also decrease morbidities