Functional constipation in infancy and early childhood: epidemiology, risk factors, and healthcare consultation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Functional constipation (FC) is a pediatric problem that is seen frequently. However, its prevalence in Asia remains undetermined. In this study we attempted to determine the prevalence, risk factors and therapeutic modalities of FC in infants and toddlers in Sri Lanka.

Methods

Children aged 6.5 months to 4 years were selected from 14 well-baby and vaccination clinics in the Gampaha District of Sri Lanka. A questionnaire with questions regarding the socio-demographic characteristics, child's bowel habits, psycho-social risk factors and treatment modalities were filled by the mothers. FC was diagnosed according to ROME III criteria.

Results

A total of 1113 children were analyzed [(female n = 560 (50.3%) with a mean age of 20.7 months, standard deviation [SD]

SUBMITTER: Walter AW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6694472 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature