| Summary: | Background: Many infants in developing countries are faced with poverty, poor
nutrition, limited access to healthcare, and exposure to communicable diseases that
place them at risk for negative developmental consequences. Dysphagia is estimated
to occur in 25-40% of normally developing, and 80-90% of infants with disabilities.
International studies report the common causes of dysphagia to be of gastro-intestinal
and neurological origin, yet limited research exists into the profile of paediatric
dysphagia within developing contexts.
Objective: To describe the profile of paediatric dysphagia in state hospitals, Gauteng.
Methods: By means of a retrospective record review, this study investigated
paediatric dysphagia (0-18 months) in state hospitals, Johannesburg. Hospital records
of 263 infants with feeding impairments were analysed using descriptive statistics, phi
correlations and logistical regression.
Results: Findings revealed 214 underlying aetiological combinations whereby 65%
(n=171) of infants experienced dysphagia secondary to a systemic illness,
predominantly communicable diseases. The health professionals, management
strategies and procedures employed in the assessment and intervention of paediatric
dysphagia were context specific and related to the aetiological and social factors
influencing the infants.
Conclusion: Results differ significantly to those reflected in studies from developed
countries. Of concern is the fact that 65% of infants experienced dysphagia secondary
to a systemic illness, since with adequate nutrition, sanitation and health care, these
conditions are potentially preventable. By improving social circumstances, the effects
of systemic illnesses may be minimised, and may consequently decrease the number
of infants affected by dysphagia. This implies that paediatric dysphagia in South
Africa is no longer merely a health dilemma, but one which involves basic human
rights.
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