Factors Related to the Incidence of Acute Respiratory Tract Infections in Toddlers at the Padang Bulan Puskesmas Medan City in 2019

Oct 13, 2025 by leolavanderia.com.br 88 views

Factors Related to the Incidence of Acute Respiratory Tract Infections in Toddlers at the Padang Bulan Puskesmas Medan City in 2019

Acute respiratory tract infections (ARI) are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with a proportional mortality rate (PMR) of 16% in toddlers. In Indonesia, the prevalence of ARI in 2018 was 9.3%, while in North Sumatra Province, it reached 6.8%. This study aims to identify the factors related to the incidence of ARI in toddlers at the Padang Bulan Puskesmas Medan City in 2019.

Background and Significance

Acute respiratory tract infections are a major public health concern, particularly in toddlers, who are more susceptible to infections due to their developing immune system. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that ARI is responsible for 16% of all deaths in children under the age of 5. In Indonesia, ARI is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, with a significant burden on the healthcare system. Therefore, it is essential to identify the factors related to the incidence of ARI in toddlers to develop effective prevention and control strategies.

Methodology

This study used a cross-sectional design and involved all toddlers in the working area of the Padang Bulan Puskesmas Medan City as a population. A total of 108 toddlers were selected using purposive sampling to become a sample. Data were analyzed using the Chi-Square test to identify the factors related to the incidence of ARI in toddlers.

Results

The results showed an ARI incidence of 65.7%. The highest frequency distribution was found in toddlers aged 12-59 months (85.2%), female (50.9%), with birth weight ≥2500 grams (100.0%), good nutritional status (80.6%), non-exclusive breastfeeding status (79.6%), and incomplete immunization status (58.3%). Based on the characteristics of the mother, the highest frequency distribution was found in Islam (59.3%), Batak tribe (51.9%), high school education (53.7%), and housewives (72.2%). Meanwhile, based on environmental characteristics, the highest proportion was found in the density of non-dense room occupancy (61.1%), does not use anti-mosquito (60.2%), and the presence of smokers (68.5%).

Statistical Analysis

Statistical analysis showed a significant relationship between age (p = 0.047), nutritional status (p = 0.032), exclusive breastfeeding status (p = 0.006), immunization status (p = 0,000), maternal education (p = 0.020), residential density (p = 0.002), and the presence of smokers (p = 0.019) with the event of ARI in toddlers.

Implications of the Finding

The results of this study have several implications for the prevention and control of ARI in toddlers. The importance of exclusive breastfeeding, good nutrition, complete immunization, and a healthy environment cannot be overstated. Research shows that exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months can reduce the risk of ARI in toddlers. Mothers are encouraged to provide exclusive breastfeeding as a main source of nutrition for their toddlers. Good nutritional status is also an important factor in preventing ARI. Mothers must ensure their toddlers get adequate and balanced nutritional intake. Complete immunization is an important step in protecting toddlers from disease, including ARI. Mothers must bring their toddlers to get basic and advanced immunization according to schedule. A healthy environment, including a density of residential, use of anti-mosquito coils, and the absence of smokers in the home, can also reduce the risk of ARI in toddlers.

The Importance of Public Awareness

This study shows that public awareness of ARI risk factors in toddlers still needs to be improved. The role of health workers, family, and community is very important in disseminating information about the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, balanced nutrition, complete immunization, and a healthy environment to prevent ARI in toddlers. Public awareness campaigns can help to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of these factors and encourage them to take action to prevent ARI in toddlers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study identified several factors related to the incidence of ARI in toddlers at the Padang Bulan Puskesmas Medan City in 2019. The results of this study have several implications for the prevention and control of ARI in toddlers. The importance of exclusive breastfeeding, good nutrition, complete immunization, and a healthy environment cannot be overstated. Public awareness campaigns can help to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of these factors and encourage them to take action to prevent ARI in toddlers.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Exclusive Breastfeeding: Mothers are encouraged to provide exclusive breastfeeding as a main source of nutrition for their toddlers.
Good Nutrition: Mothers must ensure their toddlers get adequate and balanced nutritional intake.
Complete Immunization: Mothers must bring their toddlers to get basic and advanced immunization according to schedule.
Healthy Environment: Parents need to create a healthy and clean home environment, and avoid smoking in the house.
Public Awareness: Public awareness campaigns can help to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of these factors and encourage them to take action to prevent ARI in toddlers.

By implementing these recommendations, we can reduce the incidence of ARI in toddlers and improve their health outcomes.
Q&A: Factors Related to the Incidence of Acute Respiratory Tract Infections in Toddlers

In our previous article, we discussed the factors related to the incidence of acute respiratory tract infections (ARI) in toddlers at the Padang Bulan Puskesmas Medan City in 2019. In this article, we will answer some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to this topic.

Q: What are the main causes of ARI in toddlers?

A: The main causes of ARI in toddlers are viral infections, such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and adenovirus. These viruses can be spread through the air, contaminated surfaces, and close contact with an infected person.

Q: What are the risk factors for ARI in toddlers?

A: The risk factors for ARI in toddlers include:

Age: Toddlers under the age of 2 are more susceptible to ARI.
Nutritional status: Toddlers with poor nutritional status are more likely to develop ARI.
Exclusive breastfeeding status: Toddlers who are not exclusively breastfed are more likely to develop ARI.
Immunization status: Toddlers who are not fully immunized are more likely to develop ARI.
Maternal education: Mothers with lower education levels are more likely to have toddlers with ARI.
Residential density: Toddlers living in crowded households are more likely to develop ARI.
Presence of smokers: Toddlers living with smokers are more likely to develop ARI.

Q: How can I prevent ARI in my toddler?

A: To prevent ARI in your toddler, follow these tips:

Exclusive breastfeeding: Breastfeed your toddler exclusively for 6 months.
Good nutrition: Ensure your toddler gets adequate and balanced nutritional intake.
Complete immunization: Bring your toddler to get basic and advanced immunization according to schedule.
Healthy environment: Create a healthy and clean home environment, and avoid smoking in the house.
Public awareness: Educate yourself and others about the importance of these factors and encourage them to take action to prevent ARI in toddlers.

Q: What are the symptoms of ARI in toddlers?

A: The symptoms of ARI in toddlers include:

Runny nose
Cough
Sneezing
Fever
Wheezing
Difficulty breathing

Q: How can I diagnose ARI in my toddler?

A: If you suspect that your toddler has ARI, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. They will perform a physical examination, take a medical history, and may order laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Q: What are the treatment options for ARI in toddlers?

A: The treatment options for ARI in toddlers include:

Rest and hydration
Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve symptoms
Antibiotics, if the infection is bacterial
Oxygen therapy, if the toddler is experiencing difficulty breathing
Hospitalization, if the toddler's condition is severe

Q: Can ARI in toddlers be prevented?

A: Yes, ARI in toddlers can be prevented by following the tips mentioned earlier, such as exclusive breastfeeding, good nutrition, complete immunization, and a healthy environment.

Q: What is the prognosis for toddlers with ARI?

A: The prognosis for toddlers with ARI is generally good, but it depends on the severity of the infection and the effectiveness of treatment. In severe cases, ARI can lead to complications, such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis, which can be life-threatening.

By understanding the factors related to the incidence of ARI in toddlers and taking preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of ARI in your toddler and ensure their health and well-being.