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Chronic constipation in adults: Contemporary perspectives and clinical challenges. 1: Epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical associations, pathophysiology and investigation
Author(s) -
Scott S. Mark,
Simrén Magnus,
Farmer Adam D.,
Dinning Philip G.,
Carrington Emma V.,
Benninga Marc A.,
Burgell Rebecca E.,
Dimidi Eirini,
Fikree Asma,
Ford Alexander C.,
Fox Mark,
Hoad Caroline L.,
Knowles Charles H.,
Krogh Klaus,
Nugent Karen,
RemesTroche Jose Maria,
Whelan Kevin,
Corsetti Maura
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
neurogastroenterology and motility
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.489
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1365-2982
pISSN - 1350-1925
DOI - 10.1111/nmo.14050
Subject(s) - constipation , chronic constipation , medicine , epidemiology , alternative medicine , clinical practice , medline , family medicine , pathology , political science , law
BACKGROUND Chronic constipation is a prevalent disorder that affects patients' quality of life and consumes resources in healthcare systems worldwide. In clinical practice, it is still considered a challenge as clinicians frequently are unsure as to which treatments to use and when. Over a decade ago, a Neurogastroenterology & Motility journal supplement devoted to the investigation and management of constipation was published (2009; 21 (Suppl.2)). This included seven articles, disseminating all themes covered during a preceding 2‐day meeting held in London, entitled “Current perspectives in chronic constipation: a scientific and clinical symposium.” In October 2018, the 3rd London Masterclass, entitled “Contemporary management of constipation” was held, again over 2 days. All faculty members were invited to author two new review articles, which represent a collective synthesis of talks presented and discussions held during this meeting. PURPOSE This article represents the first of these reviews, addressing epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical associations, pathophysiology, and investigation. Clearly, not all aspects of the condition can be covered in adequate detail; hence, there is a focus on particular “hot topics” and themes that are of contemporary interest. The second review addresses management of chronic constipation, covering behavioral, conservative, medical, and surgical therapies.