Post-infection disorders of gut-brain interaction: results of the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study.

Abstract

Post-infection disorders of gut-brain interaction (PI-DGBI) are a subset of chronic gastrointestinal disorders triggered by acute infectious gastroenteritis. These conditions impose a significant burden on patients' quality of life. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PI-DGBI and assess associated risk factors among participants in the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study. Data were extracted from an online survey involving 54 127 participants across 26 countries. PI-DGBI were diagnosed based on self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms following acute gastroenteritis. Statistical analyses included multivariate logistic regression to identify factors associated with PI-DGBI and comparisons with DGBI not associated with infection. Of 21 713 individuals with at least one DGBI, 987 (10.5%) were classified as having PI-DGBI. PI-DGBI prevalence varied geographically, with the highest rates in Asia (7.1%) and Latin America (6.4%). Younger age, male sex, urban residence, anxiety and higher somatic symptom scores were positively associated with subjects reporting PI-DGBI, while female sex and rural living had negative associations. Subjects with PI-DGBI reported more severe psychological and physical health impairments and distinct gastrointestinal profiles, including higher rates of functional dyspepsia (32.2%), irritable bowel syndrome (23.5%) and anorectal disorders (35.3%). PI-DGBI represents a significant subset of DGBI, with distinct sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. These findings highlight the role of acute gastroenteritis in triggering the onset of long-term gastrointestinal disorders and underscore the need for targeted interventions to mitigate its impact on patient health.