Volume : 13, Issue : 04, April – 2026
Title:
PREVALENCE OF LOWER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTION IN DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS -A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL COHORT STUDY
Authors :
S. Shadrach, J. Durga Gowtham, Ch. Komali, G. Priya Naga Jyothi, P. Seetharamaiaha
Abstract :
Background: Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are a major cause of morbidity and hospitalization among pediatric patients, particularly in younger age groups. Understanding their prevalence and associated risk factors is essential for improving management and prevention. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of LRTIs in different pediatric age groups and evaluate associated risk factors and antibiotic utilization.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over six months (October 2024 to March 2025) at a tertiary care hospital. A total of 100 pediatric patients aged 1–12 years diagnosed with LRTIs and receiving antibiotics were included. Data on demographics, clinical features, breastfeeding duration, maternal education, and residence were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, and chi-square test.
Results: The highest prevalence was observed in children aged 1–3 years (71%). Bronchiolitis was the most common condition (40%), followed by pneumonia (32%) and bronchitis (28%). Cold (60%) and fever (43%) were the most frequent symptoms. A significant association was found between shorter breastfeeding duration and LRTI prevalence (χ² = 31.2, p = 0.0005). Age was also significantly associated (p = 0.00001), while residence and maternal education showed no significant association.
Conclusion: LRTIs are highly prevalent in younger children, with breastfeeding playing a protective role. Early preventive strategies and rational antibiotic use are essential to reduce disease burden.
Keywords : Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs), Pediatrics, Bronchiolitis, Pneumonia, Antibiotic Utilization, Prevalence, Breastfeeding, Risk Factors
Cite This Article:
Please cite this article in press G. Priya Naga Jyothi et al., Prevalence Of Lower Respiratory Tract Infection In Different Age Groups -A Prospective Observational Cohort Study., Indo Am. J. P. Sci, 2026; 13(04).
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