IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-7-3-14451 Original Research Paper Functional Constipation in Children: A Cross–sectional Study Rupa Dalmia Singh Dr. March 2018 7 3 01 02 ABSTRACT

 

Aim: To identify the prevalence of functional constipation in pediatric population and study the epidemiological data. Material & Methods: All patients presenting in the Pediatrics OPD of a public teaching hospital were screened for functional constipation as per the international criteria. Various epidemiological data were recorded. Treatment was instituted as a defined protocol. Patients were followed up for minimum six months. Results: Functional constipation was found in 8.6% population. Most patients belonged to lower and lower middle socio–economic strata. Majority had a history of faulty dietary habits, and almost none of them were toilet trained. Conclusion: Functional constipation is a seemingly benign disorder and often not taken as a disease entity in the society. Apart from the treatment directed at the disease as such, awareness and life–style changes are crucial to the success of therapy.