Associations of feeding and delivery modes with the risk of otitis media with effusion in children: A cross-sectional study

Otitis media with effusion (OME) is predominantly observed in children under 6 years of age and can lead to hearing loss or even severe complications, impacting speech, and cognitive development. While the benefits of breastfeeding and natural birth in enhancing infant immunity and cognitive abilities are globally recognized, their effects on OME have been scarcely reported. This study investigates the relationship between feeding methods and delivery modes with OME in children, aiming to identify potential associative factors that may inform health education and early risk awareness, where medically feasible. A total of 81 children diagnosed with OME, aged ≤6 years, from May 2022 to May 2023, were selected as the experimental group. Another 81 children without a history of OME served as the control group. A questionnaire was used to inquire about the feeding methods and delivery modes at birth, as reported by the guardians. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0 software. Formula feeding and cesarean section are positively correlated with the incidence of OME (r > 0, P < .001), indicating that these factors contribute to an increased prevalence of the condition. A combined analysis of feeding and birth modes reveals that the incidence of OME is significantly higher in the group where formula feeding is combined with cesarean section, suggesting that these effects are additive. Compared with formula feeding, breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of OME infections; similarly, natural birth is more effective than cesarean section in lowering the incidence of OME. When both feeding and delivery modes are considered together, breastfeeding can mitigate the risk of OME in children born via cesarean section, while natural birth can decrease the risk associated with formula feeding children. Therefore, the methods of feeding and delivery modes are closely linked to the early incidence of OME in children. Where medically appropriate, continued promotion of breastfeeding and support for vaginal delivery may be beneficial in reducing risk.