Appendicitis - How common is it?

Appendicitis is the most common reason to have emergency surgery.

About 1 in 10 people get appendicitis at some time in their life.[1] Men are slightly more likely to get it than women. It can happen at any age, but it is most common between the ages of 10 and 19.

Appendicitis seems to be getting less common, but doctors aren't sure why. It could be because people are eating more fibre. It could also be that we are better at preventing the spread of germs, so we get fewer infections. However, there's no proof for these theories.

References

Addiss DG, Shaffer N, Fowler BS, et al. The epidemiology of appendicitis and appendectomy in the United States. American Journal of Epidemiology. 1990; 132: 910-925.

Glossary

fibre: Fibre is all the parts of food that the body can't absorb. This is why foods that are high in fibre make you have more bowel movements. When your body can't absorb something, it leaves your body in your stools. Foods high in fibre include wholemeal bread and cereals, root vegetables and fruits.

This information does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned you might have a medical problem please ask your Boots pharmacy team in your local Boots store, or see your doctor.