Üniversite öğrencilerinde konstipasyon problemi ve fiziksel aktivite düzeyi ilişkisi

Abstract

Background: Physical activity is a rarely investigated issue in studies focusing on constipation problem in university students. Therefore, the aim of this cross-sectional study is to investigate the relation of constipation problem and physical activity level in university students, and to find out the strategies they use to cope with constipation. Methods: Socio-demographic characteristics of 194 collegians were recorded and presence of constipation was determined by Rome II Criteria for Constipation. Physical activity level was evaluated by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Coping methods with constipation were evaluated by a questionnaire prepared by the researchers. Results: The prevalence of constipation problem was 20.6% (57.5% females and 42.5% males) in the sample according to the Rome II criteria. Mean physical activity total score of the students with constipation was lower than the others (p<0.05). Increasing liquid intake (80%), massaging the abdomen during defecation (60%), and increasing the intake of nutrients rich from fiber (50%) were the most frequently used coping methods by the students with constipation. Fifteen percent of the subjects indicated no coping methods. Conclusions: The prevalence of constipation was quite high among university students, and physical activity scores of the students with constipation were lower than those without this problem. It is considered that informing and educating university students about the possible causes of and the coping methods for constipation and also referring them to physical activities/sports may be of benefit in prevention and managemen t of constipation. © GATA.