A retrospective analysis of cases of otitis media among clients of the center for hearing and speech services, Winneba

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to conduct a retrospective document analysis of the prevalence of otitis media among clients of the Center for Hearing and Speech Services (CHSS). The philosophical stand that guides the study is positivism. The research design that was used in this study is a retrospective cross-sectional design, and the study adopted a quantitative research approach. The sample size consists of the total number of clients who visited CHSS with otitis media for the period January 2010 to January 2022. A sample of 4589 clients were used. Descriptive statistics, frequency distribution, crosstabulation, chi-square, and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyze the data. It was revealed that acute otitis media (AOM) was the most prevalent type of otitis media among CHSS clients, constituting 50.95% of cases. The study also found that otitis media is more prevalent among males than females, with a significant association between gender and otitis media. Specifically, 56.05% of otitis media cases were males, and 43.95% were females. Also, age significantly influences otitis media prevalence, with the highest prevalence among clients aged 0-6 years (29.81%). It was further found that age is negatively associated with otitis media prevalence, with younger clients, particularly children, being more susceptible to otitis media. Also, male gender has a positive association with otitis media prevalence, indicating that males are more likely to experience otitis media. Co-existing medical conditions were found to significantly increase otitis media prevalence. A longer history of exposure to noise was also found to be associated with a higher otitis media prevalence. Previous treatments for otitis media significantly reduced the prevalence of the condition, Furthermore, previous treatments had significant negative impacts on otitis media prevalence. Factors related to birth, maternal pregnancy, and specific health conditions (such as, sickle cell, measles, and meningitis) all impact otitis media prevalence. The study recommends that CHSS and other centers should implement and promote comprehensive early childhood programmes focusing on otitis media prevention and awareness, targeting children aged 0-6 years. These programmes should include educational campaigns for parents and caregivers on good ear hygiene practices, timely vaccinations, and the recognition of early symptoms. Specialized audiological services should be developed for clients with specific health conditions, such as sickle cell disease, measles, meningitis, diabetes, and other relevant health issues to address the unique audiological needs of individuals with these conditions and provide tailored support.