Lactase insufficiency in Chinese children detected by oral milk and lactose challenge

A study to determine the incidence of late-onset lactose intolerance was undertaken in 68 normal Chinese children in Singapore using measurements of breath hydrogen concentrations, following a lactose or milk challenge, as indicator of lactose malabsorption. Evidence of lactose malabsorption was detected in 26% of children given a lactose challenge, and in 21% of those given a milk challenge. It is concluded that late-onset lactase insufficiency is common in Chinese children in Singapore.