Constipation in women with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia and cervical cancer: does the extent of cervical lesion invasion influence the severity of constipation and compromise quality of life?

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Constipation is a common clinical condition, particularly among cancer patients. Objective: To assess the prevalence and severity of CF in women with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HSIL) and cervical cancer (CC), as well as the impact of this condition on their daily lives. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary cancer center. To assess the presence and severity of constipation, the Rome IV criteria, and the Constipation Scoring System (CSS) were used. To assess the impact of constipation on daily life, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used. Results: The study included 153 patients with HSIL or CC, with a median age of 44 (IQR 35-56) years. Constipation was reported in 54 (35.3%) patients, 33 (61.1%) of those with HSIL, and 21 (38.9%) of those with CC. In constipated patients, the median number of positive Rome IV criteria items was 3 (IQR 2-5). "Irregular or hard stools" was the most common complaint, affecting 41 (75.9%) of the patients. In patients with CC, the use of analgesic medications was associated with constipation (p = 0.016). There is no link between constipation and invasive cancer (p = 0.492). Constipation had a daily impact of 7.5 (IQR 4.75-9), with no relationship between VAS and clinical diagnosis (HSIL or CC) [7 (IQR 3-9) X 8 (5-9.5), p-value = 0.536] The more severe the constipation, the more disturbing it is to these women's daily lives. Conclusion: Constipation is common in women with cervical lesions, affecting their daily lives regardless of their severity. (AU)