Functional constipation (FC) is a common pediatric gastrointestinal disorder, that affects children’s quality of life and imposes a significant burden on healthcare systems. In Saudi Arabia, where FC is a prevalent concern, understanding its epidemiology and associated risk factors is crucial for targeted interventions. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of pediatric constipation in Saudi Arabia and identify associated risk factors to inform healthcare strategies. A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and regional sources. Observational studies reporting the prevalence and risk factors of constipation in Saudi children aged 0-18 years were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers using standardized tools. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to estimate pooled prevalence rates, with heterogeneity assessed using I² and Cochran’s Q test. Risk factors were synthesized qualitatively. Seven studies comprising 12,465 participants were included, with prevalence rates ranging from 4.7% to 32.2%. The pooled prevalence of pediatric constipation was 13% (95% CI: 9.2%-17.8%), with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 99%). Common risk factors identified included low maternal age, bottle feeding, low dietary fiber intake, psychological stress, and family history of gastrointestinal conditions. The quality assessment rated four studies as high quality and three as moderate quality. Pediatric constipation in Saudi Arabia affected a substantial proportion of children, with notable regional variations and multifactorial risk factors. The findings underscore the need for early screening and tailored interventions to mitigate long-term complications. Further research is recommended to explore underlying mechanisms and evaluate the effectiveness of preventive strategies.
Key words: Pediatric, pediatric constipation, functional constipation, prevalence, systematic review, meta-analysis, Saudi Arabia
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