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Presentation of Pneumonia among Madrasa Students in Bangladesh: A Cross-sectional Study in Congested Living Conditions

Syeda Farzana Rahat, N. Yasmin, N. F. Khan

TAJ Journal of Teachers Association, 2025

Abstract

Background: Pneumonia is a leading cause of illness among children living in congregate settings such as madrasas, where overcrowding and poor ventilation may increase infection risk. Understanding the demographic, environmental, clinical, and treatment factors is essential for effective management. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the characteristics, living conditions, clinical presentation, and treatment outcomes of madrasa students diagnosed with pneumonia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 50 madrasa students aged 7–13 years. Data on demographics, living environment, clinical features, laboratory and radiological findings, and treatment regimens were collected and analyzed. Results: Most students were males (96%) aged 8–9 years (38%). Over two-thirds (68.1%) lived in rooms with 16–30 occupants, with limited ventilation points (≤4 points in 83.6% of cases). All students presented with high-grade fever and were fully immunized; 16% had asthma. Before admission, 68% received antibiotics. Chest X-rays showed right-sided consolidation in 60% of cases. Elevated inflammatory markers were common, with 66% having CRP levels greater than 200 mg/L, and 74% exhibiting raised white blood cell counts, Ceftriaxone-based regimens were used in 78% of patients, with most receiving 6–7 days of therapy. Time to fever resolution correlated significantly with CRP and white cell counts. Environmental factors included shared sanitation and frequent mosquito coil…

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Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.

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