LACTOSE INTOLERANCE AMONG INFANTS AGED 3 TO 6 MONTHS IN ADJENGRE, SOTOUBOUA 2 MUNICIPALITY NORTHERN TOGO)
Melila M.*, Anakpa K. M. B., Degbe M., Badanaro F., Gani S., Agbemadon K. E., Amouzou S. K.
ABSTRACT
Background: Lactose intolerance in infants is frequently suspected in clinical practice, yet epidemiological data remain limited in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Togo. Misinterpretation of digestive symptoms may lead to inappropriate milk restriction, with potential adverse nutritional consequences. Objective: This study aimed to assess lactose digestive tolerance among infants in the the Sotouboua 2 Municipality (Togo) through the combined analysis of fecal biochemical parameters, clinical signs, and infant feeding practices. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study was conducted among infants. Fecal pH and reducing sugar levels were measured, while digestive clinical signs and type of feeding were collected through caregiver interviews. Multivariate analyses were performed to explore relationships between biological, clinical, and anthropometric parameters. Results: The majority of infants (74.42%) exhibited parameters consistent with normal lactose digestion, despite biological variability without clinical expression. A proportion of 9.30% fell within a suspected lactose intolerance category, while 16.28% showed profiles compatible with probable or confirmed lactose intolerance. Exclusive breastfeeding was associated with better digestive tolerance and milder symptoms, whereas mixed feeding was more frequently associated with digestive disturbances. Most abnormalities reflected transient phenomena related to enzymatic immaturity rather than chronic intolerance. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of an integrated diagnostic approach to improve infant nutritional management and to prevent unnecessary milk restriction in the Togolese context.
Keywords: Lactose intolerance; Infant; Breastfeeding; Fecal parameters; Togo.
[Full Text Article]
[Download Certificate]
Impact Factor : 8.181 
