Introduction: Childhood obesity and chronic functional constipation (CFC) are common
public health problems. This study was designed to compare the prevalence of
obesity in children with and without CFC. Materials and Methods: All children referred with constipation (2009-2010) were evaluated, and
were enrolled if they were diagnosed as CFC. Children with mild illnesses, but
without GI problem, were selected as controls.Their age and sex matched. Data
about age, sex, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), duration of breast
feeding, duration of constipation, incontinence, daily consumption of fiber and
dairy products, daily activity, and family history of CFC were recorded for
both groups. Results: 208 constipated children (51% male mean age: 4.73 yr) and 208 healthy
controls were enrolled. 19.7% of patients and 17.8% of controls (P>0.05)
were obese (BMI>95%). Patients had:
less average (>2 hr) daily activity (80.3% vs. 95.2% P