ABSTRACT
Introduction:
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 São 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 São 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.
Keywords:
Constipation; Aged; Elderly