Worldwide population prevalence and impact of sub-diagnostic gastrointestinal symptoms

• BackgroundThe Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study (RFGES) found that 40.3% of adults in 26 internet-surveyed countries met Rome IV criteria for disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI). However, additional people not meeting DGBI criteria may also be burdened by frequent gastrointestinal symptoms.AimsTo explore the prevalence and demographic distribution of sub-diagnostic gastrointestinal symptoms, and the hypothesised associated effects on quality of life (QoL), life functioning and healthcare needs.MethodsWe analysed data from the RFGES survey, which included the Rome IV diagnostic questionnaire and QoL, psychological, work productivity and healthcare questions.ResultsOf the 50,033 people without a history of organic gastrointestinal disorders, 25.3% classified in the sub-diagnostic group (no DGBI but one or more frequent gastrointestinal symptoms), 41.4% had DGBI and 33.4% had no frequent gastrointestinal symptoms (non-GI group). Sub-diagnostic prevalence in different world regions ranged from 22.2% (North America) to 30.5% (Middle East), was slightly higher among males than females and decreased with age. The sub-diagnostic group was intermediate between the non-GI and DGBI groups, and significantly different from both of them on QoL, anxiety, depression, somatisation, healthcare utilisation and life and work impairment.ConclusionsOne in four adults without organic gastrointestinal disorders or DGBI report frequent gastrointestinal symptoms. This sub-diagnostic group has reduced QoL, greater psychological and non-GI bodily symptoms, impaired work productivity and life activities and greater healthcare use compared to non-GI individuals. This suggests that many in this sub-diagnostic group might benefit from healthcare services or symptom self-management advice. This survey in 26 countries found that 25.3% of adults who do not have organic gastrointestinal disorders or Rome IV disorders of gut-brain interaction have one or more frequent gastrointestinal symptoms. This sub-diagnostic group collectively exhibits reduced quality of life and work productivity, elevated psychological symptoms and increased healthcare needs.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Gastroenterologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Gastroenterology and Hepatology (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

epidemiology

gastrointestinal symptoms

Rome criteria

Publikations- och innehållstyp

ref (ämneskategori)

art (ämneskategori)