STUDY ON PREVALENCE OF ACUTE RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS (ARI) IN UNDER FIVE CHILDREN IN LUCKNOW DISTRICT

Background: Childhood ARI/pneumonia is a significant public health problem in India, although robust epidemiological data is not available on its incidence. Mortality due to pneumonia accounts for approximately one-fourth of the total deaths in under five children, in India. Pneumonia affects children irrespective of socioeconomic status; with higher risk among young infants, malnourished children, nonexclusively breastfed children and those with exposure to solid fuel use. Objectives: To find out the prevalence of ARI in under five children and also determine the socio demographic factors responsible for the same in Lucknow District. Materials and Methods: It was a cross sectional study which was carried out in 260 under 5 children in urban area and rural area of Lucknow district during April 2013 to September 2013. Results: The overall prevalence of ARI in children was approximately 23%. Prevalence was higher in boys (36%) than in girls (10%). Children old between 3-5 years less likely suffered from ARI (3%) than children from other age groups. In social class IV and class V, prevalence of ARI was more in rural area (31.4%, 37.1%) as compare to urban area (32%, 16%). A direct correlation was found between immunization status of children and occurrence of ARI along with a significant correlation between timely initiation of breast feeding and decreased occurrence of ARI. Conclusion: The present study found poor nutritional status, low socio economic class, delay in initiation of breast feeding, prelactal feeding, and immunization status as significant risk factors for Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) in under fives.