Prevalence of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders and Associated Risk Factors Among Preschool Children in the City of Jeddah and Surrounding Areas: A Cross-Sectional Study

TL;DR

This study finds that 9% of preschool children in Jeddah have functional gastrointestinal disorders, with constipation being most common, and identifies risk factors like preterm birth and food allergies.

Contribution

The study provides new prevalence data for FGIDs in preschool children in Jeddah and identifies specific risk factors unique to this population.

Findings

Functional constipation was the most common FGID, affecting 3.5% of children.

Preterm birth and family history of gastrointestinal issues were significant risk factors for FGIDs.

Irregular eating habits and food allergies also increased the risk of FGIDs in preschool children.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) affect children’s daily activities and overall performance due to gastrointestinal symptoms. This study assesses the prevalence and types of FGIDs in children living in Jeddah City and its countryside. It also examines factors that contribute to the incidence of these disorders and their impact on children’s lifestyles. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 285 mothers of preschool children enrolled in kindergartens during the academic year 2020–2021. The Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaire was sent out online through kindergartens to be filled out by the children’s mothers. The questionnaire assessed the prevalence of FGIDs subjectively through symptoms and their frequency. Results: Among the 285 participants, 9% (n = 27) fit the diagnostic criteria for FGIDs. Common FGIDs included functional constipation, 3.5% (n = 10); postprandial distress syndrome, 2.4% (n = 7); functional abdominal pain—not otherwise specified, 1% (n = 3); and functional epigastric pain, 0.7% (n = 2). Significant risk factors for developing FGIDs among the children in the sample included being a preterm baby (p < 0.01), being previously diagnosed with a gastrointestinal condition (p < 0.010), having a family history of diarrhea or nausea and vomiting (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively), skipping lunch at kindergarten (p < 0.01), and having pre-existing food allergies (p < 0.01). Conclusions: FGIDs were prevalent among 9% of children in Jeddah City and its countryside. Functional constipation was the most common disorder. Factors associated with FGIDs in children included preterm birth, being previously diagnosed with a GI condition, a family history of gastrointestinal conditions, irregular eating habits, and food allergies.

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