ABSTRACT
The objective of this study was to assess awareness regarding otitis media in patients of rural parts of Raichur district, Karnataka. Patients of otitis media attending village health check-up camps conducted by our department were given questionnaire to assess the awareness regarding otitis media. Association between sociodemographic parameters and awareness were studied using Chi-square test. Age group of 10-30 years was the most affected. More than half of the patients had ear discharge of 5 to 15 years duration. Over 50% of the population showed ignorance with regard to the risk factors for otitis media. Earache was either disregarded (32%) or treated with home remedies by most, (63%) while a doctor's opinion was often sought for ear discharge (60%). Lack of awareness about otitis media contributes to its' high prevalence in this South Indian district. Health education is essential to reduce the disease burden.
