Holding It In: School Toilets and the Growing Problem of Constipation in Children
Amsterdam, Netherlands – A new study by the Maag Lever Darm Foundation(MLDS) has revealed a concerning trend: school children are increasingly avoiding using school toilets, leading to a rise in constipation and related health problems. The research, conducted among a thousand children and their parents, found that nearly half of the children rarely or never use the school toilets, and a majority regularly hold their bowelmovements.
The study highlights the significant impact of inadequate toilet facilities on children’s health. The MLDS director, Mariël Croon, expressed alarm at the findings, stating, We were shocked by the number of children experiencingstomach aches and even needing medical attention due to holding their stool.
The study reveals that children are reluctant to use school toilets due to concerns about cleanliness and privacy. Pupils find the toilets too dirty and lack privacy, Croon explained. They often have swinging doors that you can look under, and children sometimes find that funny to do, but that does not provide privacy.
The MLDS argues that the current cleaning practices are insufficient. Dozens to hundreds of children use school toilets every day, and they’re only cleaned in the evening. That is not enough, Croon said.
The consequences of holding in bowel movements can be severe. Holding poop in all day is causing problems for kids, Croon said. Nearly half (43 percent) experienced complaints like stomach aches as a result. In one in six cases, it isso serious that they even have to go to the doctor.
The MLDS calls for urgent action to address this issue. We want schools to offer safe toilet facilities with sufficient privacy and cleanliness, Croon said. And for this to also be monitored. At the moment, this is not being done everywhere.
The foundation also emphasizes the importance of educating children about healthy toilet habits. It is also important that children know that it is very unhealthy to hold your stool, Croon said. Healthy toilet behavior is an important topic, and we are going to see if schools can do something about it.
The study’s findings have sparked a conversation about the importance of creating a comfortable and hygienic environment for children in schools. The MLDS hopes that the research will encourage schools to prioritize toilet facilities and implement strategies to promote healthy bowel habits among students.
Beyond the immediate health concerns, the study highlights a broader issue of school environment andits impact on children’s well-being. The lack of adequate toilet facilities can create a sense of discomfort and shame, potentially affecting children’s self-esteem and overall school experience.
The MLDS’s call for action is a timely reminder that schools play a crucial role in ensuring the physical and emotional well-being of their students. By addressing the issue of inadequate toilet facilities and promoting healthy toilet habits, schools can create a more supportive and conducive learning environment for all children.
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