Researchers looking for constipated people to assist with new study

Research scientists at Queen Mary University of London are looking for people who are chronically constipated to help develop understanding of the condition and possibly improve treatments.

The team in London are looking for volunteers to take part in a study on the causes and treatment of constipation, which affects more than 2 million people in the UK.

Chronic constipation is defined as having symptoms of infrequent, difficult of incomplete bowel actions for more than 6 months.

“Constipation can have a hugely detrimental effect on people’s lives, and many suffer in silence.

There are several treatments available and more than £80 million is spent on over-the-counter laxatives in the UK alone. However, treatments are often unsatisfactory, due to the lack of understanding surrounding the causes of constipation.

It is hoped that an improved understanding of what causes constipation will help doctors better predict which therapies will work for which patients”

– Dr Mark Scott, Queen Mary University of London

To take part, constipated adults between 18-70 must be available for 8 visits (over 6 months) to the Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma at Queen Mary’s Blizard Institute (London).

Patients will have a blood test, MRI scan, colonoscopy and be given two types of medication as part of the research programme. A disruption allowance of up to £500 is available, plus travel expenses.

Anyone interested cal email a.zdanaviciene@qmul.ac.uk and mention the ‘RECLAIM’ study, or call 0207 882 2645. The deadline is January 2020.