The prevalence of faecal incontinence and constipation in a general New Zealand population; a postal survey

Aims. To determine the prevalence of constipation and faecal incontinence i n the community. Methods. A 20-question multi-field postal questionnaire was sent to 1500 ad ults (over 18 years) randomly selected from the electoral roll in the Cante rbury region. Questions detailed frequency of bowel function, time spent at the toilet, incidence and severity of faecal incontinence, constipation, a nd the effect of disordered bowel function. Results. Of 1500 questionnaires, 717 (48%) were returned (male: female 388: 329). The median age was 46 years (range 18-70). 24 (4%) had self-reported gastrointestinal disease. There was a median frequency of seven bowel motio ns per week (BM/wk) (range 1 to 70) with 89% having between two motions a d ay and one every two days. Faecal incontinence affected lifestyle in 58 (8. 1%). Incontinence of solid stool at least once a month occurred in 70 (9.8% ), of liquid stool in 91 (12.7%), of gas in 459 (64%), while 12 (2%) regula rly wore a pad. Those with self-reported gastrointestinal disease had a sig nificantly higher (p<0.05) bowel motion frequency (17 vs 7 BM/wk) and media n faecal incontinence score (2.5 vs 0). Laxatives were used by 4.9% of the population, while 26.2% increased fibre to avoid constipation. Conclusions. The normal frequency of bowel motions (+.- 2SD) was 2-17 per w eek. Faecal incontinence affecting life style affected 8.1%, while constipa tion requiring regular laxative use affected 4.9% of people. There is accep tance in the community that a moderate degree of bowel dysfunction is norma l. Stool frequency and faecal incontinence scores can be used to predict th ose most likely to have organic gastrointestinal disease.