Background Factors Involved in the Epidemiology of Functional Constipation in the Japanese Population

Background: Little is known about the prevalence and epidemiology of functional constipation (FC), a functional bowel disorder with symptoms of constipation. This study aimed to examine the prevalence, population composition, lifestyle, quality of life, and clinical characteristics of individuals with and without FC and of individuals with a strong or weak awareness of constipation. Methods: An internet survey revealed that 262 (8.7%) out of 3,000 respondents from the general Japanese population were diagnosed with FC. Moreover, all respondents were classified according to their awareness of constipation (i.e. strong or weak), and their characteristic features were compared. Results: FC occurrence was associated with the elderly population, females, and homemakers. Its onset was associated with a change in the frequency of bowel movement, sensation of incomplete or hardly any evacuation, and the use of manual maneuvers, which are consequential clinical symptoms of FC. Subjects with FC also frequently skipped breakfast, had insufficient sleep, had more severe constipation, and had purchased laxatives in pharmacies or online more often than individuals without FC. A strong awareness of constipation was significantly more prevalent among women and homemakers. A history of anemia and cardiovascular disease was significantly more frequent in the strong awareness group, whereas a history of hypertension was more frequent in the weak awareness group.Conclusions: Based on the understanding of the characteristic features of FC, appropriate and comprehensive management considering the patient’s symptoms and lifestyle should be provided.