The effect of working in an auto factory on functional constipation and bowel habits.

AIM

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the factors associated with functional constipation (FC) and to determine a normal range of bowel movement (BM) in an Iranian Auto factory's workers.

BACKGROUND

The digestive system may be affected by workplace conditions. Some occupational conditions can affect the bowel habit and FC.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 3590 workers who worked in Tehran suburb in 2017 were evaluated. The workers worked in morning or rotatory shifts and in the official and non-official sections. In addition to demographic and stool frequency questions, workers were asked to complete the Rome IV Questionnaire.

RESULTS

The normal range of BM frequency was determined between one and three per day. The BM frequency had a significant association with age (P=0.002), marital status (P=0.024), education (P=0.011), exposure to chemical materials (P<0.001), and work section (P<0.001). The total prevalence of FC was 9.7% which was greater among rotatory shift working than among only morning shift workers (10% vs 6%; P=0.02). Independent factors associated with FC were found as age (for 30- 40 years old: OR=1.88; 95% CI (1.20, 3.03) and for ≥41 years old: OR=1.91; 95% CI (1.12,3.17)), smoking (OR=1.52; 95% CI (1.20,1.93)) and work section (for Paint section: OR=0.33; 95% CI (0.12,0.87), for montage section: OR=0.44; 95% CI (0.18,1.10), for press & platform section: OR=0.12; 95% CI (0.05,0.37)).

CONCLUSION

Occupational condition may make a difference in bowel habit. Rotatory shift, official working, and smoking may increase the risk of constipation.