This systematic review and global estimates study by Monasta et al. (2012) examines the burden of disease caused by otitis media (OM), including acute otitis media (AOM) and chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM), and their related hearing impairments. The study aims to provide comprehensive data on incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates of OM for all ages and 21 WHO regional areas in 2005. Key findings include: - **Incidence and Prevalence:** - Global incidence of AOM is 10.85%, with 709 million cases annually, 51% of which occur in children under five. - Global incidence of CSOM is 4.76%, with 31 million cases annually, 22.6% of which occur in children under five. - OM-related hearing impairment has a prevalence of 30.82 per ten thousand. - Approximately 21,000 people die annually due to complications of OM. - **Geographical Distribution:** - Incidence rates vary significantly across regions, with Oceania, Sub-Saharan Africa Central, and West having the highest rates. - Prevalence of hearing impairment is highest in Asia South, followed by Oceania and Sub-Saharan Africa. - **Mortality:** - Mortality rates are relatively low compared to other causes but are higher in the first year of life and in the age group 1-4 years. - Oceania has the highest mortality rate, followed by Sub-Saharan Africa Central and West. - **Discussion:** - The study highlights the significant burden of OM, particularly in the first five years of life and in the poorest countries. - It calls for improved early diagnosis and treatment, including the rational use of antibiotics, and preventive interventions such as breastfeeding, smoking avoidance, and reduction of indoor air pollution. - The findings emphasize the need for health policies and programs to incorporate preventive measures and improved access to effective treatment, especially in high-burden countries. The study provides valuable insights into the global impact of OM and suggests strategies for reducing its health, social, and economic burden.This systematic review and global estimates study by Monasta et al. (2012) examines the burden of disease caused by otitis media (OM), including acute otitis media (AOM) and chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM), and their related hearing impairments. The study aims to provide comprehensive data on incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates of OM for all ages and 21 WHO regional areas in 2005. Key findings include: - **Incidence and Prevalence:** - Global incidence of AOM is 10.85%, with 709 million cases annually, 51% of which occur in children under five. - Global incidence of CSOM is 4.76%, with 31 million cases annually, 22.6% of which occur in children under five. - OM-related hearing impairment has a prevalence of 30.82 per ten thousand. - Approximately 21,000 people die annually due to complications of OM. - **Geographical Distribution:** - Incidence rates vary significantly across regions, with Oceania, Sub-Saharan Africa Central, and West having the highest rates. - Prevalence of hearing impairment is highest in Asia South, followed by Oceania and Sub-Saharan Africa. - **Mortality:** - Mortality rates are relatively low compared to other causes but are higher in the first year of life and in the age group 1-4 years. - Oceania has the highest mortality rate, followed by Sub-Saharan Africa Central and West. - **Discussion:** - The study highlights the significant burden of OM, particularly in the first five years of life and in the poorest countries. - It calls for improved early diagnosis and treatment, including the rational use of antibiotics, and preventive interventions such as breastfeeding, smoking avoidance, and reduction of indoor air pollution. - The findings emphasize the need for health policies and programs to incorporate preventive measures and improved access to effective treatment, especially in high-burden countries. The study provides valuable insights into the global impact of OM and suggests strategies for reducing its health, social, and economic burden.