Insight inTo Stress and POOping on Work TIME (ITS POO TIME): Protocol for a Web-Based, Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Gastroenterology
• Psychology

Background:

• Long working hours and shift work are prevalent globally, impacting worker health.
• Bowel movement patterns may indicate workplace stress and affect gut health.
• Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI) prevalence in shift workers needs further characterization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the Insight inTo Stress and POOping on work TIME (ITS POO TIME) protocol.
• To investigate DGBI, stool characteristics, psychological factors, sleep, diet, and bowel movement anxiety in occupational vs. residential settings.
• To compare DGBI and bowel habits between shift and non-shift workers.

Main Methods:

• A web-based survey (Study 1) collected quantitative data on occupational factors, DGBI (Rome-IV criteria), sleep, diet, and bowel movement anxiety (parcopresis).
• A qualitative study (Study 2) explored attitudes towards defecation at work.
• Study 1 aimed for 1967 participants to detect a 5% difference in DGBI prevalence between shift and non-shift workers.

Main Results:

• Data collection for Study 1 (n=1872) and Study 2 (n=337) concluded in December 2023.
• Primary results are anticipated in 2025, with qualitative findings expected in 2026.
• The study identified associations between occupational factors and bowel movements, stool form, and frequency.

Conclusions:

• Findings will inform industry, employers, and policymakers on DGBI, stress, and worker health.
• Understanding the impact of work patterns on gut health is crucial for improving occupational health.
• The research protocol provides a framework for studying the complex interplay of work, stress, and gastrointestinal well-being.