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