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ISSN 2063-5346
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EXPLORING THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGENS AND CHRONIC OTITIS MEDIA: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY

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Muhammad Rafiq Khan, Maria Shahid, Dr Mukhtar Ibrahim, Dr. Ramzan Ali, Dr Sultan Badar Munir, Dr. Sanaina Javaid, Kashif Lodhi
» doi: 10.53555/ecb/2023.12.Si13.283

Abstract

Background: Chronic otitis media (COM) is a prevalent and debilitating middle ear condition that affects individuals of all age groups. Environmental factors, including exposure to allergens, have been suspected to contribute to the development and persistence of COM. However, limited epidemiological research has been conducted to elucidate the association between environmental allergens and COM. This study aims to investigate this association comprehensively. Aim: The main aim of our epidemiological research is to discover potential connection among environmental allergens and the prevalence of chronic otitis media. We aim to determine whether individuals exposed to high levels of allergens are at an increased risk of developing COM and whether specific allergens are more strongly correlated with this middle ear condition. Methods: We led cross-sectional epidemiological research involving a diverse cohort of participants from various geographical regions. Data on environmental allergen exposure was collected through standardized questionnaires and environmental assessments. Otoscopic examinations and medical history reviews were employed to diagnose and classify chronic otitis media cases. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression and correlation assessments, were performed to identify any significant associations between allergen exposure and COM. Results: Our findings revealed the statistically substantial connection between environmental allergen exposure and chronic otitis media. Individuals with higher allergen exposure levels were found to be at an elevated risk of developing COM. Moreover, specific allergens, such as pollen and dust mites, exhibited a stronger correlation with COM prevalence. These results suggest that environmental allergens can act very significant part in the development and exacerbation of COM. Conclusion: This epidemiological study provides compelling evidence supporting an association between environmental allergens and chronic otitis media. These findings underscore position of seeing environmental factors in assessment and management of COM. Additional research is needed to discover fundamental mechanisms of our current association and enhance targeted interventions to reduce COM risk among individuals exposed to high levels of allergens.

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