J Korean Acad Fam Med.
2006 Sep;27(9):693-698.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Functional Constipation in the Elderly
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea. chunwon@khmc.or.kr
- 2Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea.
- 3Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju University, Jeju, Korea.
- 4Sung Buk Geriatric Welfare Facilities, Seoul, Korea.
Abstract
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BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are believed to be common in the general population, and constipation is one of the most representative GI symptoms. However, the prevalence and risk factors of functional constipation are not well known in Korea. We aimed to study the prevalence of, and risk factors for, constipation in the elderly.
METHODS
We randomly selected 852 among 854 (excluded by cancer and dementia) subjects, ages 65 yr and older, in three different geriatric welfare facilities in December, 2003. The prevalence of functional constipation was based on the Rome II criteria and the survey on risk factors for constipation was performed.
RESULTS
Functional constipation had a prevalence of 26.6% and there was no difference between men and women. Exercise, fluid, fruit, vegetable intake, anal diseases and age related risk factors were associated with constipation.
CONCLUSION
In the elderly, constipation is a common complaint. Further studies are now required for risk factors of constipation.
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