Occasional Constipation: Prevalence and Impact in the Rome IV Global Epidemiology Study

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• The Rome working group recently defined occasional constipation (OC).
• Understanding the global prevalence and impact of OC is crucial for public health initiatives.
• Comparing OC to no constipation and functional constipation (FC) provides valuable insights into its distinct characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the global prevalence of Rome-defined occasional constipation (OC).
• To investigate the comorbidities, quality of life (QoL) impact, and healthcare utilization associated with OC.
• To compare these factors between individuals with OC, no constipation, and functional constipation (FC).

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study, encompassing 54,127 adults from 26 countries.
• Employed an internet survey to collect Rome IV diagnoses, demographics, psychosocial data, QoL, and medical history.
• Defined OC based on Rome IV criteria (≥1 constipation symptom without meeting FC criteria, with bowel function concerns), excluding other bowel disorders or organic diseases.

Main Results:

• The global prevalence of Rome-defined OC was 7.4%, with significant regional variations (4.3%–15.8%).
• OC was linked to lower QoL, higher prevalence of anxiety and depression, and increased upper gastrointestinal disorder symptoms compared to no constipation.
• Individuals with OC reported greater concern about bowel function than those with FC and exhibited higher healthcare consumption.

Conclusions:

• Rome-defined occasional constipation is a prevalent global condition.
• OC is associated with significant psychological distress, reduced quality of life, and other Rome IV diagnoses.
• The condition contributes to substantial healthcare utilization, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.