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Constipation in elderly patients attending a polyclinic

P J Meiring1, G Joubert

  • 1Department of Biostatistics, University of the Orange Free State, Bloemfontein.

South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
|August 12, 1998
PubMed
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Constipation affects 29% of elderly individuals in both white and black populations, with depression being a key risk factor. Laxative abuse is particularly prevalent among the black elderly.

Area of Science:

  • Geriatrics
  • Gastroenterology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Constipation is a common condition in the elderly, impacting quality of life.
  • Understanding ethnic differences in constipation prevalence and risk factors is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence and risk factors for constipation in elderly white and black populations.
  • To compare constipation prevalence and associated factors between these two groups.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted.
  • 179 white and 188 black elderly patients (born before 1930) attending family medicine clinics were recruited.
  • Constipation was the primary outcome measure, assessed via a defined criteria.

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Main Results:

  • Constipation prevalence was 29% in both white and black elderly participants.
  • Depression was identified as a significant risk factor for constipation in both groups.
  • Older age (over 80) was a risk factor for constipation in black participants, while diet fiber/fluid intake was not associated. Pain during defecation was linked to constipation. Laxative use was high, especially among black participants (76.6%).

Conclusions:

  • The prevalence of constipation is high in both elderly white and black populations.
  • Laxative use and potential abuse are widespread, particularly in the black elderly community.
  • Depression and age are significant risk factors for constipation in the elderly.