Lactose Intolerance | Community Health

Lactose intolerance is a common condition characterized by the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products, due to a deficiency of the enzyme lactase in the small intestine. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, flatulence, and nausea, typically occurring 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming lactose-containing products. With four types of lactose intolerance - primary, secondary, developmental, and congenital - it's essential to understand the causes, diagnosis, and management of this condition. According to the [[national-institutes-of-health|National Institutes of Health]], approximately 65% of the global population has some degree of lactose intolerance. The [[world-health-organization|World Health Organization]] also recognizes lactose intolerance as a significant public health concern, particularly in regions where dairy consumption is high. Research by [[harvard-university|Harvard University]] has shown that lactose intolerance can be managed through dietary changes and enzyme supplementation, improving the quality of life for those affected.