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The problem of defecation disorders in children is underestimated and easily goes unrecognized: a cross-sectional

Marjolijn E W Timmerman1, Monika Trzpis2, Paul M A Broens3,2

  • 1Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, P.O. Box 30 001, 9700, RB, Groningen, the Netherlands. m.timmerman01@umcg.nl.

European Journal of Pediatrics
|September 29, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Constipation and fecal incontinence are common in children, affecting 15.6% and 3% respectively. Many children do not recognize these defecation disorders or seek help, leading to underestimation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Constipation and fecal incontinence are common pediatric issues, but prevalence may be underestimated.
  • Diagnosis is challenging due to varied symptoms and comorbidities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of constipation and fecal incontinence in children.
  • To investigate recognition, help-seeking behaviors, and associated symptoms of defecation disorders.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study of 212 Dutch children aged 8-18 years using a questionnaire.
  • Exclusion criteria included anorectal/pelvic surgery or comorbidities.

Main Results:

  • Prevalence of constipation was 15.6%, with 25% co-occurring with fecal incontinence. Fecal incontinence without constipation affected 3% of children.
  • Despite worse perceived bowel habits, many children rated their condition as good/very good.
  • 21-50% of children with defecation disorders did not report symptoms; 46% of constipated children had normal stool frequency/consistency.

Conclusions:

  • Constipation and fecal incontinence are highly prevalent in children.
  • Normal stool characteristics in many constipated children complicate diagnosis.
  • Underreporting and lack of help-seeking behavior lead to underestimation of these disorders.

Keywords:
ConstipationFecal incontinenceHelp-seeking behaviorPrevalenceStool consistencyStool frequency

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