Epidemiological and demographic features of appendicitis and influences of several environmental factors

Abstract

Background: In this study, we present the demographic features of appendicitis and investigate the influence of several factors (season, temperature, humidity, altitude) on the development of the condition.

Methods: A total of 1871 patients operated between 2004 and 2007 were included and divided into two subgroups as perforated and non-perforated appendicitis. The demographic features and environmental factors were investigated. We compared the effects of environmental conditions with those observed in other countries.

Results: Appendicitis was most frequent among males between 10 to 19 years of age. Perforated appendicitis was mostly seen between 0-9 years and after 50 years of age. The frequency of appendicitis was the highest during winter, but the rate of perforation was at its minimum during this season. During the coldest three months of the year, non-perforated appendicitis was mostly seen at temperatures of -8.8 degrees C; however, perforated appendicitis was mostly seen at -11.2 degrees C (p<0.01).

Conclusion: Our findings show that the frequency of appendicitis and perforation rate are influenced by sex and age. Environmental factors like season, temperature and altitude may also influence the frequency of appendicitis.