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

Background 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. Objectives This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PI-DGBI and assess associated risk factors among participants in the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study. Design 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. Results 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%). Conclusions 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.