ABSTRACT

Constipation is a common disorder in Western societies. Survey estimates of the prevalence of constipation in childhood vary between 2 and 15%. The average prevalence of constipation increases from childhood (2%) exponentially to 15% in adults. It is estimated that a general practitioner will see 20-30 children with constipation per year in an average practice of 2500 patients. Around 3% of a pediatrician’s practice consists of children with chronic constipation. For the pediatric gastroenterologist, consultation rates vary between 10 and 20%. Thus, a substantial number of children have constipation,1 and this problem is of paramount practical importance for physicians.