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 fiber. 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.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.