Lockdown constipation insidence and associated factors among adults during COVID-19 in Turkey

Abstract

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic, by restricting population mobility, may exacerbate the risk factors for new constipation. This study was aimed to determine lock-down constipation incidence and associated factors among adults during COVID-19 pandemic in Çorum city from Turkey. Methods A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on adult Turkish population (above 20 years of age), applying an electronic survey between December 2020-February 2021 to evaluate: demographic characteristics, nutrition behaviors, physical activity, weight gain, constipation incidence (according to Rome IV criteria) and coronavirus anxiety with Coronavirus Anxiety Scale Brief Form. Results Out of 816 participants evaluated, 301 (36.8%) developed new constipation with a significant decreased in the daily water consumption (p < 0.05) and physical activity, increased consumption of caffeinated beverages, skipped breakfast often, feeding mainly flour and cereal products, and weight gain (p < 0.05) during lock-down. Coronavirus anxiety was detected in 35% of participants and the incidence of constipation was significantly higher in those with coronavirus anxiety (p < 0.001). The multivariate analysis (logistic regression) showed that low water consumption (OR:1.67; p = 0.004), poor fiber diet (OR:1.45; p = 0.000), decreased physical activity (OR:1.34; p = 0.039), weight gain (OR:1.23; p = 0.000) and coronavirus anxiety (OR:1.17; p = 0.000) were associated with “new” constipation. Conclusions Lock-down constipation incidence was considerably high among adults and associated with lifestyle behaviors and coronavirus anxiety due to COVID-19 pandemic. Key messages Lock-downs may trigger the development of new constipation and anxiety. Risk factors related to the behavior of constipation come to the fore in lock-downs.