Impact of Constipation on Quality of Life, Work Productivity, and Treatment Practices: Findings from the CONNECT Web-Based Survey

INTRODUCTION: Constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder that negatively affects quality of life, work productivity, and long-term prognosis. To examine the associations between constipation severity and Short Form-8 Health Survey (SF-8) and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire (WPAI) scores, as well as treatment status and patient preferences, through a large-scale survey of the general population. METHODS: A web-based questionnaire was administered to 2,300 Japanese adults with constipation symptoms using a large survey panel. The survey assessed the Constipation Scoring System (CSS), Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS), SF-8, WPAI, treatment status, and preferences for treatment methods. RESULTS: CSS scores showed significant negative correlations with the SF-8 Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores and significant positive correlations with WPAI scores (P < 0.05). Both SF-8 and WPAI scores differed significantly across BSFS categories, with normal stool forms associated with better outcomes (P < 0.05). Only 22.0% of participants received prescription medication for constipation. The most common reason for not seeking medical care was "inconvenience of visiting a medical institution" (65.6%). Regarding treatment preferences, 80.8% preferred tablet formulations, and once-daily administration at bedtime was the most favored dosing schedule (56.7%), followed by before breakfast (30.0%). CONCLUSION: Constipation severity and stool form are associated with quality of life and work productivity, underscoring the importance of appropriate treatment strategies. Patient preference should also be considered when selecting therapeutic options.