Impact of Constipation on Quality of Life, Work Productivity, and Treatment Practices: Findings from the CONNECT...

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder that negatively affects quality of life (QOL), work productivity, and long-term prognosis. The aim of this study was to examine the associations between constipation severity and Short Form-8 Health Survey (SF-8) and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire (WPAI) scores, as well as treatment status and patient preferences, through a large-scale survey of the general population.

A web-based questionnaire was administered to 2,300 Japanese adults with constipation symptoms using a large survey panel. The survey assessed the Constipation Scoring System (CSS), Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS), SF-8, WPAI, treatment status, and preferences for treatment methods.

CSS scores showed significant negative correlations with the SF-8 Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores and significant positive correlations with WPAI scores (p < 0.05). Both SF-8 and WPAI scores differed significantly across BSFS categories, with normal stool forms associated with better outcomes (p < 0.05). Only 22.0% of participants received prescription medication for constipation. The most common reason for not seeking medical care was "inconvenience of visiting a medical institution" (65.6%). Regarding treatment preferences, 80.8% preferred tablet formulations, and once-daily administration at bedtime was the most favored dosing schedule (56.7%), followed by before breakfast (30.0%).

Constipation severity and stool form are associated with QOL and work productivity, underscoring the importance of appropriate treatment strategies. Patient preference should also be considered when selecting therapeutic options.