Prevalence of fecal outlet obstruction and its predisposing factors in women aged 40 years and older: An epidemiological study

The aim of this study is to determine the prevalent of Fecal OutletObstruction (FOO) and associated risk factors in women aged 40 and older. In this cross sectional study, a total of 800 women wererandomly selected via cluster sampling among residents of area zone 17 of Tehranand were interviewed at home. Data was analyzed using Chi-square and Fisher exacttests. Prevalence for FOO cases was mild 36. 5% (95% CI, 33–39%), medium8%(95% CI, 6–10%) and acute 0. 5% (95% CI, 0. 01–0. 9%) which was onlyassociated with age increase (p=0. 006). There is a significant relationship betweenphysical activity and morbidity of FOO (P=0. 004). FOO was associated withdepressive and anxiety disorders, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, chroniccough, and chronic inflammatory bowel disease (P<0. 005). This study underscores the prevalence rate of FOO symptoms and its underlying factors. It also considers lack of knowledge about this hidden epidemicproblem and its protective factors among women in Iranian community; andrecommends further research to determine effective strategies for prevention,education, screening and early treatment to promote women's health and quality oflife.