Which group of patients is primarily associated with higher incidents of otitis externa?

The group primarily associated with higher incidents of otitis externa includes diabetics and swimmers due to several risk factors intrinsic to these populations.

Diabetic patients often have impaired immune responses, which makes them more susceptible to infections, including those affecting the ear canal. The high levels of glucose present can also create an environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungi, increasing the likelihood of developing ear infections.

Swimmers are also at elevated risk due to the exposure of their ears to water, which can lead to excess moisture accumulation in the ear canal. This damp environment can facilitate the growth of pathogens that cause otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer's ear. In fact, any activity that involves prolonged exposure to water can increase the likelihood of developing this condition, reinforcing the strong association between swimming and otitis externa.

In contrast, while infants and toddlers can experience ear infections, they are typically more associated with otitis media rather than otitis externa. Elderly individuals and the immunocompromised population may also develop various types of infections, but not specifically otitis externa at the same higher rates as diabetics and swimmers. Allergics and asthmatics may have their own set of ear-related issues, but they are not predominantly linked to an increased