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Lactose intolerance in adults in Senegal
Comptes Rendus Des Seances De La Societe De Biologie Et De Ses Filiales
|January 1, 1980
Summary
Adult lactose malabsorption is a common hereditary condition in Black Africa, affecting about 29% of Senegalese people. The Peuhl ethnic group, of Semitic origin, exhibits complete lactose tolerance.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Human Biology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Adult lactose malabsorption is an inherited trait.
- Prevalence varies significantly across global populations, being less common in people of European descent.
- It is notably widespread in populations across Africa.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of adult lactose malabsorption in Senegal.
- To examine ethnic variations in lactose tolerance within Senegal.
- To identify specific ethnic groups with differing lactose digestion capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological survey of lactose malabsorption.
- Analysis of prevalence data across different ethnic groups in Senegal.
- Comparative study of lactose tolerance based on ethnic origin.
Main Results:
- Lactose malabsorption affects approximately 29% of the adult population in Senegal.
- Prevalence rates differ based on the ethnic composition of the population studied.
- The Peuhl ethnic group, identified as being of Semitic origin, demonstrates complete lactose tolerance.
Conclusions:
- Adult lactose malabsorption is a significant hereditary health issue in Senegal.
- Ethnic background is a key determinant of lactose digestion in the Senegalese population.
- The Peuhl ethnic group serves as a unique example of full lactose tolerance in the region.