Norgine survey demonstrates quality-of-life impact of constipation

Norgine has highlighted data from a new international survey that shines a spotlight on the impact that constipation can have on people's lives.

The Norgine-funded market research survey was presented at the United European Gastroenterology Week Congress in Berlin and revealed that 98 percent of patients believe their chronic constipation negatively affects their quality of life.

According to the poll of 766 patients drawn from Europe, Australia and South Africa, around one-third of sufferers feel their concentration at work is affected by their condition, with more than half seeing an impact on their diet.

It was also revealed that constipation can disrupt social lives and sleeping patterns – as well as causing irritation, embarrassment and stress – for a long period of time, with many people suffering from the condition for more than five years.

Dr Pauline Jouet of the Hopital Louis Mourier in France said: "Doctors have an important role in advising sufferers how to manage this condition and laxative choice, as it is clear from these results that there is still a considerable need for proactive medical support for these patients."

Last month, Norgine announced that it has provided debt financing of two million pounds to Internis Pharmaceuticals, a British start-up company with strong growth prospects.