Prevalence of constipation in Down syndrome and association with behavioral problems

Abstract

Objective: To investigate intestinal habits of children, adolescents and adults with Down Syndrome (DS) in order to identify the prevalence of intestinal constipation and to analyze possible relationships between constipation and behavior problems.

Methods: Descriptive, exploratory and comparative study. Participated 130 people with medical diagnosis of DS, aged between seven months to fifty years old, without uncorrected heart diseases or diagnosed intestinal diseases. The assessment was conducted using a questionnaire on intestinal habits, based on the Rome IV criteria and on the recommendations provided by the World Gastroenterology Organization, and other North American and European Associations; Bristol Scale and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).

Results: 43 constipated participants (33.1%). The prevalence rate by age group was 47% (0-35 months), 40% (3-5 years), 22% (6-11 years), 28% (12-19 years) e 17% (> 20 years), without any sex difference. Constipated participants obtained significantly higher scores on the SDQ Hyperactivity scale, as well as more deviant scores on the Conduct Problems and Total Problems scales.

Conclusions: Constipation among people with DS was more prevalent in younger participants. The greater presence of behavior problems among constipated individuals suggests that intestinal functioning is related to behavioral difficulties.