Majallah-i ̒Ilmī-i Dānishgāh-i ̒Ulūm-i Pizishkī-i Simnān (Sep 2013)
Obesity in chronic functional constipation compared to healthy children
Abstract
Introduction: Childhood obesity and chronic functional constipation (CFC) are common public health problems. This study was designed to compare the prevalence of obesity in children with and without CFC.Materials and Methods: All children referred with constipation (2009-2010) were evaluated, and were enrolled if they were diagnosed as CFC. Children with mild illnesses, but without GI problem, were selected as controls.Their age and sex matched. Data about age, sex, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), duration of breast feeding, duration of constipation, incontinence, daily consumption of fiber and dairy products, daily activity, and family history of CFC were recorded for both groups.Results: 208 constipated children (51% male; mean age: 4.73 yr) and 208 healthy controls were enrolled. 19.7% of patients and 17.8% of controls (P>0.05) were obese (BMI>95%). Patients had: less average (>2 hr) daily activity (80.3% vs. 95.2%; P<0.001); shorter period of breast feeding (16.3 mo. vs. 18.24 mo.; P≈0.017) and more frequently diet with inadequate fiber (58.7% vs. 28.8%; P<0.001). There was no difference for dairy consumption (P≈0/94). Family history of CFC found to be more in patients (28.8% vs. 8.2%; P<0.001). In patient group, mean duration of constipation was longer in obese subjects (in comparison to non-obese ones; 31.4 mo. vs. 21 mo.; P<0.01).Conclusion: Although the prevalence of obesity in children with CFC was similar to healthy age matched population, they were differed by duration of breastfeeding, average daily fiber consumption, average daily physical activity and family history of constipation.
