A large‐scale study to describe the prevalence, characteristics and management of functional gastrointestinal disorders in African infants. (18th March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bellaiche, Marc; Ategbo, Simon; Krumholz, Fanny; Ludwig, Thomas; Miqdady, Mohamad; Abkari, Abdelhak; Vandenplas, Yvan
• Is Part Of: Acta pædiatrica. Volume 109:Number 11(2020)
• Page Start: 2366
• Page End: 2373
• Publication Date: 2020-03-18
• Subjects: functional gastrointestinal disorder -- infant -- Africa -- colic; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Pediatrics; 618.92
• DOI: 10.1111/apa.15248
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0803-5253

Abstract

Abstract: Aim: To evaluate the pattern, impact on quality of life and management of common functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) and related signs and symptoms in infants below 1 year of age in Africa. Methods: Multicentre, cross‐sectional, observational study in 10 African countries. At the first paediatric consultation of children with gastrointestinal symptoms, the perception of paediatricians on FGIDs (infant colic, constipation and regurgitation) and gas/bloating, impact on infant quality of life and parental anxiety and patient management practices were evaluated by standardised questionnaires. Results: Questionnaires were completed by 759 paediatricians for 10 812 infants. Overall, 49.9% of paediatricians reported ≥30% of first infant consultations each month for FGIDs or related symptoms. Infant colic was most commonly diagnosed (57.6% of infants), followed by gas/bloating (43.2%), regurgitation (39.7%) and constipation (31.4%). Overall, 53% presented >1 symptom. Mean scores for infant quality of life, sleep and parental anxiety were worse when children had multiple symptoms compared to children with a single symptom ( P < .025). Prescription of medication was common (62.4%). There were no consistent differences between countries. Conclusion: Functional gastrointestinal disorder occurrence in Africa was high with a gap between expert recommendation that emphasises parental reassurance and nutritional advice and daily practice, particularly prescription of medication.