Hábito intestinal de moradores de uma comunidade ribeirinha: um teste-piloto

Abstract

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of intestinal habits among residents of a riverside community in the interior of Amazonas and to characterize the sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle, and food consumption aspects of the sample. Methods: This pilot study was conducted in the Itapéua Community, located in the municipality of Coari (AM), with 27 residents aged ≥18 years. Data were collected in June 2024 using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic information, clinical conditions, lifestyle behaviors, and intestinal habit assessment, including the Bristol Stool Scale and the instrument validated by Domansky and Santos (2007). Results: The prevalence of normal intestinal habit was 92%, while constipation and anal incontinence each accounted for 4%. Type 4 stools, daily evacuation, absence of effort, and low reports of incomplete evacuation predominated. The sample presented an average daily fluid intake of 1.5 L and low engagement in physical activity (25.9%). Conclusion: A high prevalence of normal bowel habits was observed, possibly associated with local environmental, cultural, and dietary factors. As this is a pilot test, the small sample size limits the generalization of the findings, reinforcing the need for larger studies.