What is one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases in children and adolescents?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is recognized as one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases in children and adolescents due to its prevalence and impact on this age group. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, which can significantly affect a young person's quality of life.

The condition often arises during adolescence, a critical period of physical and emotional development, and it can be influenced by various factors including diet, stress, and lifestyle. The diagnosis of IBS in children is often made after ruling out other potential causes for gastrointestinal symptoms, making it a common focal point in pediatric gastroenterology.

Other gastrointestinal disorders, while they may also present in children and adolescents, either occur less frequently or have specific age-related characteristics that do not make them as prevalent as IBS in this demographic. Thus, IBS’s symptoms, frequency, and impact make it a leading concern among gastrointestinal diseases in younger populations.