Correlação entre a frequência alimentar de fibras e constipação intestinal em pessoas com HAM/TSP: estudo transversal

Abstract

Associated Myelopathy/Tropical Spastic Paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is an immune-mediated disease, usually asymptomatic. However, there are those who can develop autonomic changes in bladder sphincters and develop constipation, which can be influenced by fiber consumption. Objective: To verify the correlation between the frequency of dietary fiber consumption and intestinal constipation in people with HAM / TSP. Methodology: Cross-sectional study, carried out with 22 people with HAM / TSP. The individuals were submitted to an evaluation in a single moment, about: the fiber feeding frequency through the FFQ ELSA-Brasil; constipation was evaluated using the Agachan Scale; and, a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire was applied. The study was submitted to and approved by the Research Ethics Committee (CEP) with CAEE of 77594617.0.0000.5628. Results: In the evaluated group it was possible to observe that the predominance of females, in the fifth decade of life, who use an auxiliary device and do not perform physical activity. The presence of constipation was observed as indicated by the Agachan scale, and the frequency of fiber consumption was 36.30 g / day, with a higher consumption than the recommendation. Thus, the correlation between these last two variables is weak and statistically insignificant (r= 0.212 and P= 0.313). Conclusion: The average frequency of fiber consumption is above that recommended for a healthy population, in contrast, these individuals have constipation, with a weak correlation between these variables. Further studies are needed to assess factors that influence, with fibers, the presence and worsening of constipation.