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Defecation frequency and stool form in a coastal eastern Indian population
Manas Kumar Panigrahi1, Sanjib Kumar Kar, Shivaram Prasad Singh
1Department of Gastroenterology, S.C.B. Medical College, Cuttack, Odisha, India.
Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility
|July 23, 2013
Summary
Normal stool frequency in an Indian population averages 14 stools weekly, with Bristol type IV being most common. Older age, particularly in females, is linked to less frequent bowel movements.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Defining normal bowel habits is crucial for diagnosing constipation.
- Existing data on stool form and frequency in Indian populations are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate normal stool form and frequency in an eastern Indian population.
- To identify demographic and lifestyle factors influencing bowel habits.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 1,200 apparently healthy, asymptomatic subjects.
- Evaluation of predominant stool form using the Bristol Stool Chart and assessment of weekly stool frequency.
- Collection of data on demographics, diet, and physical activity.
Main Results:
- The predominant stool form was Bristol type IV (58.2%), with a median weekly frequency of 14 stools (range 2-42).
- Only 2.6% of subjects reported fewer than 3 stools per week.
- Older age (>35 years) and female gender were significantly associated with less frequent bowel movements, particularly in women.
Conclusions:
- The median stool frequency in this eastern Indian population is 14 per week, with Bristol type IV being the most common form.
- Older age and female gender are independent predictors of reduced stool frequency.
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