Rising Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

Recent studies highlight a rise in irritable bowel syndrome among children and adolescents. The condition is linked to gut-brain axis dysregulation and changing diet, lifestyle, and stress patterns.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):

Dimension	Key Details
Definition	Functional gastrointestinal disorder involving dysregulation of the gut-brain axis.
Prevalence in Children	Prevalence estimates ranging from 5% to 15% among children and adolescents.
Global Prevalence	Occurrence in 10% of the population worldwide.
India Risk Pattern	Women being 3 times more at risk in India.
Symptoms	Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, flatulence, nausea, and mucus in stools.
Childhood Risk Factors	Low-fibre diet, processed food intake, reduced physical activity, increased screen time, and stress.
Causes	Comprises gut-brain axis dysfunction, visceral hypersensitivity, motility issues, gut dysbiosis, post-infectious IBS, intestinal permeability, psychological stress, and genetics.
Gut Microbiota	Community of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea in the gastrointestinal tract.
Types	Comprises IBS-C, IBS-D, IBS-M, and IBS-U.
Dietary Management	Low-FODMAP diet, fibre-rich foods, and avoidance of individual triggers.
FODMAP Diet	Provides for reduction of short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed and ferment in the colon.
Lifestyle Management	Bowel training, regular exercise, stress management, and counselling.
Supportive Management	Probiotics, relaxation techniques, and psychotherapy in stress-triggered cases.