RISK FACTORS FOR PNEUMONIA IN CHILDREN AGED LESS THAN 5 YEARS AT KISUMU COUNTY REFERRAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

Pneumonia is defined as acute inflammation of the lung parenchyma. It is a major public health problem and the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in under-five children especially in developing countries in which Kenya is among them. Pediatric pneumonia is responsible for more than 800,000 young children death worldwide each year(UNICEF). These deaths occur almost exclusively in children with underlying conditions such as chronic lung disease of prematurity, congenital heart disease and immunosuppression. Since pneumonia is common and associated with significant morbidity and mortality, promptly diagnosing pneumonia, correctly recognizing any complications and appropriately treating patients are important. In 2019 it was estimated that about 102 million cases of pneumonia occurred in Eastern Africa of which 0.7 million were end up with death. However, inconsistency among those studies was seen and no review has been conducted to report the risk factors for pneumonia in under-five children therefore this review aimed to study the risk factors for pneumonia in under-five in Kisumu county referral hospital. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the pediatric ward at Kisumu County Referral Hospital where all under-five children admitted with signs of respiratory infection were assesed for signs of pneumonia and interviewing their parents or guardians to elicit the risk factors for pneumonia in children and a total of 60 respondents were included. Data was collected using questionnaire, recorded and analyzed. Results: most respondents were female at 65% then male 35%. On basis of age most respondents were between 2-3 years at 30% followed by 1-2 years at 25%, 0-1 year at 20%, 3-4 years at 14% and the lest was 4-5 years at 10%. On immunization 90% of respondents were fully immunized while 10% were not fully immunized. On environmental factors type of cooking 60% were cooking with firewood followed by charcoal at 20% then the least was gas