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Gastroenterological problems in childhood in Jordan
Insights
Diarrheal illnesses are a major cause of child mortality in Jordan, with viral causes uninvestigated. Declining breastfeeding and increased gastroenteritis highlight the need for further research into pediatric gastrointestinal health.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health
Background:
- Gastrointestinal problems, particularly diarrheal illnesses, are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in young children in Jordan.
- Diarrhea accounts for approximately 20% of admissions at Jordan University Hospital (JUH), indicating a significant public health concern.
- A decline in breastfeeding rates correlates with an increase in gastroenteritis, especially among impoverished populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the multifactorial etiology of diarrhea in Jordanian children, with a specific focus on under-investigated viral pathogens.
- To assess the prevalence of various gastrointestinal and hepatic conditions in pediatric populations in Jordan.
- To understand the impact of changing infant feeding practices on childhood gastroenteritis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of pediatric admissions at Jordan University Hospital (JUH).
- Review of etiological factors contributing to diarrheal illnesses, including bacterial and viral pathogens.
- Examination of the prevalence of conditions such as cow's milk protein intolerance, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, hepatitis, and cystic fibrosis.
Main Results:
- Bacterial pathogens are infrequently isolated in cases of childhood diarrhea.
- Viral causes of diarrhea have not been investigated in this population.
- Hepatitis is common among school-aged children, and cystic fibrosis, while rare, has been recognized, with JUH designated as a regional referral center.
Conclusions:
- Diarrheal illnesses in Jordanian children are multifactorial, with a significant knowledge gap regarding viral etiologies.
- Public health strategies should address declining breastfeeding rates and promote appropriate management of diarrhea, including oral rehydration therapy and discouraging antibiotic use.
- While some gastrointestinal conditions are rare, hepatitis poses a significant health burden, necessitating continued surveillance and management.
Abstract:
Gastrointestinal problems and, in particular, diarrhoeal illnesses are the commonest cause of morbidity and mortality among young children in Jordan. Children with diarrhea constitute about 20% of admissions to Jordan University Hospital (JUH). The aetiology of diarrhoea is multifactorial and bacterial pathogens are seldom isolated. Stool viruses have not been investigated. There is a steady fall in the prevalence of breast-feeding with a consequent increase in gastroenteritis, especially among the poor. The use of electrolyte solutions for oral rehydration therapy is encouraged, and the use of antibiotics in diarrhoeal illness is discouraged. The addition of sucrose instead of glucose to electrolyte solutions has also been adopted. Cow's milk protein intolerance, coeliac disease and chronic inflammatory bowel disease are rarely encountered. Hepatitis is common and is a major cause of morbidity among school children. Cystic fibrosis has been recognized in Jordan but is rare. JUH has been selected as the referral centre for cystic fibrosis in the Middle East.