Constipation is marked by infrequent bowel movements and the symptoms, including straining, hard stools and infrequent defecation, can be distressing. [Johanson 2007, Horn 2012]
Trouble with constipation is very common, and studies point to a prevalence of about 20% [Simrén 2018]. Several factors appear to be associated with a greater prevalence, including female gender, increasing age (particularly > 60 years of age), having a low-fibre diet and an inactive lifestyle. [Higgins 2004, Horn 2012]
A market research study by Microlax suggests that 10% of adults who experience constipation are frequent sufferers (they experience it once a month or more often). [U&A Sweden, Incite, January 2013]