CESAREAN SECTION AS A RISK FOR BRONCHIOLITIS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD

Introduction: Acute bronchiolitis is one of the most common lower respiratory tract diseases in children during the first year of life and a frequent reason for hospitalization of young children during the winter period. In 75% of cases, it is caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). A more severe clinical course of acute bronchiolitis is expected in younger children, those born preterm, and children with underlying conditions. Aim: To determine whether there is a correlation between cesarean section and the increased incidence of bronchiolitis in children up to one year old in the municipality of Doljevac. Material and methodology: The study group consisted of 80 children, 36 boys and 44 girls, aged up to 1 year, with an average age of 8.2 months, diagnosed with bronchiolitis between October 2024 and January 2025. A questionnaire was completed by the mothers, and the collected data was statistically processed to determine possible correlations. Results: Among the total number of children with bronchiolitis under the age of one, it was found that 28 (35%) were born through spontaneous vaginal delivery, while 52 (65%) were born via cesarean section. Conclusion: Since this is a retrospective study, we lacked information on whether the cesarean sections were performed electively or as emergency procedures. Our research will open many avenues for larger and more in-depth studies. Cesarean delivery appears to increase the risk of bronchiolitis when compared to babies born via vaginal delivery.