Clinical characteristics of colonic diverticulosis in Korea: A prospective study

Abstract

Background/Aims: The prevalence of colonic diverticulosis has been reported to be lower in Korea than in Western countries. This disease also shows markedly different characteristics in the Korean population. We describe herein a prospective investigation, based on colonoscopic examination, of the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and factors associated with colonic diverticulosis in Korea.& Methods: We prospectively analyzed data from 848 patients who underwent colonoscopy between July and October 2008 in Seoul Paik hospital. Clinical features such as the presence of diverticula and their location and number were assessed. Information on the subjects' symptoms, body mass index, diet, underlying disease, and alcohol and smoking habits was obtained through completion of a questionnaire.& Results: The overall prevalence of colonic diverticulosis was 12.1% (103/848). The right side of the colon was involved in 84.5% of patients (87/103); patients with right side diverticula were, on average, younger than those with left side diverticulosis (p = 0.014). Multiple diverticula were observed in 60.2% (62/103) of patients. Age greater than 60 years, a high-fat diet, and alcohol consumption were significantly associated with the presence of colonic diverticulosis (p < 0.05).& Conclusions: The prevalence of colonic diverticulosis in Korea is increasing and is most commonly located in the right side of the colon. Further, old age and diet may affect the risk of development of this disease.