# Searching for a Connection Between the Phenomenon of Transport Exclusion and the Presence of Gastroenterological Symptoms: A Survey of Secondary School Students in Poland

## TL;DR

This study explores how transport difficulties affect the health of Polish secondary school students, finding links to morning nausea and irregular eating.

## Contribution

The study identifies transport exclusion as a novel factor influencing adolescent gastrointestinal health.

## Key findings

- Long commuting times and early wake-up schedules are linked to irregular eating patterns.
- Transport difficulties are associated with morning gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and abdominal pain.
- Early wake-up times increase the risk of gastrointestinal symptoms in adolescents.

## Abstract

Background: Transport exclusion and difficult access to educational institutions pose a significant problem for maintaining daily routines, sleep patterns and eating habits and are a potential cause of gastroenterological disorders. This study aims to demonstrate the possible associations between transport difficulties and selected gastrointestinal symptoms. Methods: A cross-sectional anonymous online survey was conducted among 650 students aged 15–20 years from urban and rural areas. Data on place of residence, commuting time, wake-up time, breakfast habits, and gastrointestinal symptoms were analyzed by chi-square tests, nonparametric methods, and correlation analyses. Results: The survey demonstrated the association between commutes to school and the occurrence of morning nausea, abdominal pain, and irregular meal patterns. Early wake-up times are also associated with the risk of symptoms. Transport-related factors, particularly long commuting times and early wake-up schedules, are associated with more irregular eating patterns and a higher prevalence of morning gastrointestinal symptoms in adolescents. Conclusions: Transport exclusion may represent an important, yet understudied, factor influencing adolescent health.