Review estimates functional constipation prevalence among children in China
A synthesis of Chinese studies linked constipation with several family, dietary and behavioral factors, but those associations do not show what causes or prevents it.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
This review estimated how common functional constipation was among children and adolescents in China and examined associated characteristics. The pooled result suggests a meaningful burden, with prevalence differing across demographic groups and diagnostic criteria. Associations involving diet, activity, sleep and bowel habits do not demonstrate that changing those factors would prevent or treat constipation.
The review assessed cross-sectional studies, which cannot establish the direction of an association. The abstract does not give effect sizes for the associated factors or specify individual study assessment periods.
What researchers found
Prevalence of functional constipation
Children and adolescents in China; descriptive pooled estimate without an intervention comparator. Assessment periods were not reported.
Patterns varied across groups
Higher prevalence appeared in certain age groups, among girls, in northern China and in studies using a particular diagnostic definition. These patterns need to be read alongside differences in study populations and how constipation was identified.
Associations are not prevention tests
Low fruit and vegetable intake, inadequate water, low activity and family history were among the associated factors. The authors described adequate sleep and good bowel habits as protective factors; those associations do not establish preventive effects.
The original publication
Prevalence and influencing factors of functional constipation in Chinese children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Liu Q, Dai Y, Zhou Z et al.
Front Public Health · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41908739
- Record checked
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