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Defaecation pattern and intestinal transit in Nigerian children
F O Akinbami1, O Erinoso, O A Akinwolere
1Department of Paediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences
|December 1, 1995
Summary
This study on 410 Nigerian children (6 months-5 years) found most had 1-3 daily bowel movements. Mean intestinal transit time was 18.3 hours, aiding in identifying childhood diarrhea and constipation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health
Background:
- Understanding normal defecation patterns and intestinal transit time is crucial for pediatric health.
- Early identification of gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and constipation in children prevents complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the defecation patterns and intestinal transit times in healthy Nigerian children aged 6 months to 5 years.
- To establish baseline data for identifying deviations indicative of diarrhea or constipation.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 410 healthy children (6 months-5 years) utilizing questionnaires and the carmine red marker method.
- Data collection focused on stool frequency, consistency, volume, and mouth-to-anus transit time.
Main Results:
- 95% of children experienced 1-3 bowel movements daily, with frequency decreasing with age.
- Stool consistency was generally soft, with volumes between 50-75 ml.
- Mean mouth-to-anus transit time was recorded as 18.3 hours in a subset of 98 children.
Conclusions:
- The established defecation patterns and transit times provide a reference for Nigerian preschool children.
- This data supports the early detection of diarrhea and constipation in this population.
- Dietary habits, including high-residue intake, may influence these patterns.