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Published on: January 27, 2019
Functional gastrointestinal disorders in Jordanian infants: a pilot study
Yazan O Al Zu'bi1, Eyad Altamimi2, Ahmed H Al Sharie1
1Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan.
Insights
Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are common in Jordanian infants, with functional constipation being the most prevalent. Infants diagnosed with FGIDs were more likely to consume herbs.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Neonatal Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are a diverse group of conditions diagnosed using the Rome criteria.
- Understanding the prevalence and risk factors of FGIDs in infants is crucial for early intervention and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of FGIDs in Jordanian infants.
- To identify potential risk factors associated with the development of FGIDs in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 127 infants presenting to a pediatric follow-up clinic.
- Parents completed an Arabic version of the Rome IV diagnostic questionnaire, and infant medical records were reviewed.
Main Results:
- 64% of infants met the diagnostic criteria for at least one FGID.
- Functional constipation was the most common FGID (95%), followed by infant dyschezia (13%).
- Herb intake and circumcision rates were significantly higher in infants with FGIDs.
Conclusions:
- FGIDs are highly prevalent in young Jordanian infants.
- Functional constipation is the predominant FGID.
- Infant herb consumption is associated with FGIDs.
Introduction:
Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) encompass a wide spectrum of disorders that may be diagnosed using the Rome criteria.
Aim:
To identify the prevalence and risk factors for the development of FGIDs in Jordanian infants.
Material And Methods:
We conducted a cross-sectional study to investigate the prevalence of FGIDs among infants and characterise any possible risk factors. Between 1 January 2020, and 30 December 2020, patients who presented to the paediatric follow-up clinic at King Abdullah University Hospital were recruited. Parents were interviewed and asked to complete an Arabic version of the Rome IV diagnostic questionnaire for pediatric gastrointestinal disorders for neonates and toddlers. Data regarding the parents' gastrointestinal symptoms and children's medical history were collected. Children's electronic medical files were also reviewed.
Results:
The study included 127 children, 78 (61%) were males. The median age was 40 days. According to the Rome IV criteria eighty-two (64%) of the infants fit the diagnosis for at least one disorder. The most prevalent disorder was functional constipation (n = 78, 95%) followed by infant dyschezia (n = 11, 13%). Compared to infants who did not meet the diagnostic criteria, herb intake and circumcision rates were significantly higher among those who did. Univariate analyses revealed that Infants with FGIDs were more likely to ingest herbs.
Conclusions:
FGIDs were common among young infants. Functional constipation was the most commonly diagnosed FGID. Infants with with FGIDs were more likely to intake herbs to ease the symtpoms.
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