Intestinal constipation in the elderly and associated factors – SABE Study

Constipation is understood to be a chronic problem related to a multi-functional disorder that affects approximately 20% of the world population, and it is more prevalent in women and in the elderly. Objective To measure the prevalence of intestinal constipation in elderly people living in Sao Paulo, as well as the factors associated with this condition. Methods This was a cross-sectional study using the SABE study database (Health, Well-being and Ageing) from 2010 with a probabilistic sample of 1345 elderly people (≥ 60 years) living in Sao Paulo city, both male and female. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with intestinal constipation. Results and conclusion The prevalence of intestinal constipation in older people is 14.23%. The associated factors were joint pain, osteoporosis, and use of laxatives; in women, associated factors were antidepressants and diuretics.