Related Experiment Videos
Lactose malabsorption in Australian Aborigines.
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|March 1, 1983
Summary
Most Australian Aborigines experience lactose malabsorption, leading to digestive issues. This indicates a widespread lactase deficiency within this population, similar to other adult human groups.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Human Biology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Lactose malabsorption is common in many adult populations worldwide.
- Understanding its prevalence in Australian Aborigines is crucial for health and dietary recommendations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of lactose malabsorption in healthy, adult Australian Aborigines.
- To compare malabsorption rates and symptoms between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal individuals.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the breath hydrogen method to measure lactose malabsorption.
- Enrolled 45 full-blood Australian Aboriginal subjects and 37 multiracial controls.
- Assessed for symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea post-lactose challenge.
Main Results:
- 84% of Australian Aboriginal subjects exhibited lactose malabsorption.
- 64% of Aboriginal subjects reported symptoms like abdominal pain or diarrhea.
- 20% of control subjects showed lactose malabsorption, with all experiencing diarrhea.
Conclusions:
- Australian Aborigines demonstrate a high incidence of lactose malabsorption.
- The findings strongly suggest widespread lactase deficiency in this population.
- Results align with the common occurrence of lactase deficiency in most adult humans.