Prevalence of Acute Otitis Media in North Sumatera Province, Indonesia

Abstract

Acute Otitis Media (AOM) is the second most prevalent disease found in children after Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI). AOM prevalence varies in different countries, ranging between 2.3 - 20%. Epidemiological studies of AOM in developing countries are very rare. As of today, no prevalence data of AOM found in North Sumatera. Thus, there needs to be an epidemiological data to establish prevention strategy and treatment based on population profile. The objective of this study is to acquire prevalence data and patient profile of AOM in North Sumatera. This is a descriptive study with cross-sectional design. The study population is all the people living in North Sumatera Province who were selected through Simple Random Sampling in several chosen sub-districts. The inclusion criteria of this study is the total population who are willing to be the subject of this study. AOM patients was found as much as 37 of 1726 subjects. Therefore, the prevalence of AOM is 2.1%. Women comprise more of the group (51.4%). The most prevalent age group is 0-5 years old (45.9%). The most prevalent symptom is otalgia (37.8%). The prevalence of AOM in North Sumatera is 2.2%. There is a need for better ear care and screening program for early detection of this disease.