Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of constipation among the general population in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional design was used, and data were collected through a self-administered online questionnaire distributed randomly on social media to the general population. The survey included three parts including sociodemographic data, diagnosis of constipation using both Rome III criteria and Bristol stool chart, and the third part was mini nutritional assessment.
Results: A total of 435 participants were included in the study. This study showed that the prevalence of constipation among the people in Al-Ahsa was 40.7% using Rome III criteria, while estimation through the Bristol stool chart obtained a lower rate of 12.8%. Females were more susceptible than males. The risk factors associated with constipation were found to be physical inactivity, presence of chronic disease, use of medication, and gender. However, age, educational level, marital status, and employment status were not found to be significantly associated with constipation.
Conclusion: This study revealed that constipation is a significant problem affecting a high proportion of the general population in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.
Key words: Saudi Arabia, stool, risk factors, nutrition, constipation
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