Doctors warn of constipation risks
Some 4 to 6 percent of adults in China suffer from chronic constipation, medical experts said at a health awareness event in the city. They said the incidence rises along with age and over 22 percent of people over 60 had the problem.
A fast pace of pace, an unhealthy diet and a lack of exercise were to blame and poor awareness of gastrointestinal health could lead to delayed treatment and a worsening of the condition, said Dr Yu Lifen of Shanghai’s Ruijin Hospital. “The gastrointestinal tract is a very important digestive organ in the body, also the largest part of the immune system. There are more than 1,000 types of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract and proper microecological balance is crucial for people’s health.”
She said constipation can cause severe effects on major diseases such as rectal cancer, breast disease and Alzheimer's disease. However, the public's lack of knowledge of the condition could lead to improper drug use, she said.
“Regular exercise, a healthy diet and a reasonable choice of medicines like lactulose are effective measures,” she said.
Dr Yu Lifen from Ruijin Hospital explains how to deal with constipation at a health promotion event.
People practice yoga during a health event promoting knowledge for constipation prevention and control.
