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Relationship Between Depression and Constipation: A Cross-Sectional Health Report From the PERSIAN Guilan Cohort
Maryam Ferdowsi1, Niloofar Faraji1, Saman Maroufizadeh2
1Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Research Center Guilan University of Medical Sciences Rasht Iran.
Health Science Reports
|July 16, 2026
Summary
Depression significantly increases the odds of developing constipation, with a notable association observed in males. Integrated mental and gastrointestinal health assessments are crucial for effective patient care.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Psychological factors, such as stress and anxiety, are known to impact gastrointestinal function.
- The relationship between depression and digestive disorders, specifically constipation, warrants further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the association between depression and constipation within the Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in Iran (PERSIAN) Guilan Cohort Study (PGCS) population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 10,520 participants aged 35-70 years.
- Data collection included demographic, lifestyle, medical history, depression (physician diagnosis or antidepressant use), and constipation (bowel movements, bloating, laxative use) assessments.
- Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with a significance level set at 0.05.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of depression was 5.22% and constipation was 4.45%. Both conditions were more common in females and increased with age.
- Constipation was significantly more prevalent in individuals with depression (10.20% vs. 4.13%, p < 0.001).
- Logistic regression revealed that depression increased the odds of constipation (adjusted OR = 1.92), with a stronger effect observed in males.
Conclusions:
- Depression is significantly associated with an increased likelihood of constipation.
- The association between depression and constipation appears stronger in males.
- Integrated assessment of mental and gastrointestinal health is recommended for comprehensive patient care.
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