Epidemiology of the functional gastrointestinal disorders diagnosed according to Rome II criteria: an Australian population-based study

Neuromodulation and the Gut-Brain Axis: Therapeutic Mechanisms and Implications for Gastrointestinal and Neurological Disorders

The gut-brain axis (GBA) represents a complex, bidirectional communication network that intricately connects the gastrointestinal tract with the central nervous system (CNS). Understanding and intervening in this axis opens a pathway for therapeutic advancements for neurological and gastrointestinal diseases where the GBA has been proposed to play a role in the pathophysiology. In light of this, the current review assesses the effectiveness of neuromodulation techniques in treating neurological and gastrointestinal disorders by modulating the GBA, involving key elements such as gut microbiota, neurotrophic factors, and proinflammatory cytokines. Through a comprehensive literature review encompassing PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, this research highlights the role played by the GBA in neurological and gastrointestinal diseases, in addition to the impact of neuromodulation on the management of these conditions which include both gastrointestinal (irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)) and neurological disorders (Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and neuropsychiatric disorders). Despite existing challenges, the ability of neuromodulation to adjust disrupted neural pathways, alleviate pain, and mitigate inflammation is significant in improving the quality of life for patients, thereby offering exciting prospects for future advancements in patient care.

Global Prevalence of Fecal Incontinence in Community-Dwelling Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Fecal incontinence (FI) can considerably impair quality of life. Through a systematic review and meta-analysis, we sought to determine the global prevalence and geographic distribution of FI and to characterize its relationship with sex and age.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases to identify population-based surveys of the prevalence of FI.

RESULTS

Of the 5175 articles identified, the final analysis included 80 studies; the median response rate was 66% (interquartile range [IQR], 54%-74%). Among 548,316 individuals, the pooled global prevalence of FI was 8.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.8%-9.2%); by Rome criteria, it was 5.4% (95% CI, 3.1%-7.7%). FI prevalence was greater for persons aged 60 years and older (9.3%; 95% CI, 6.6%-12.0%) compared with younger persons (4.9%; 95% CI, 2.9%-6.9%) (odds ratio [OR], 1.75; 95% CI, 1.39-2.20), and it was more prevalent among women (9.1%; 95% CI, 7.6%-10.6%) than men (7.4%; 95% CI, 6.0%-8.8%]) (OR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.06-1.28). The prevalence was highest in Australia and Oceania, followed by North America, Asia, and Europe, but prevalence could not be estimated in Africa and the Middle East. The risk of bias was low, moderate, and high for 19 (24%), 46 (57%), and 15 (19%) studies, respectively. Exclusion of studies with high risk of bias did not affect the prevalence of FI or heterogeneity. In the meta-regression, the high study heterogeneity (I2 = 99.61%) was partly explained by age.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately 1 in 12 adults worldwide have FI. The prevalence is greater among women and older people.

What impact has the Centre of Research Excellence in Digestive Health made in the field of gastrointestinal health in Australia and internationally? Study protocol for impact evaluation using the FAIT framework

INTRODUCTION

The need for public research funding to be more accountable and demonstrate impact beyond typical academic outputs is increasing. This is particularly challenging and the science behind this form of research is in its infancy when applied to collaborative research funding such as that provided by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council to the Centre for Research Excellence in Digestive Health (CRE-DH).

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

In this paper, we describe the protocol for applying the Framework to Assess the Impact from Translational health research to the CRE-DH. The study design involves a five-stage sequential mixed-method approach. In phase I, we developed an impact programme logic model to map the pathway to impact and establish key domains of benefit such as knowledge advancement, capacity building, clinical implementation, policy and legislation, community and economic impacts. In phase 2, we have identified and selected appropriate, measurable and timely impact indicators for each of these domains and established a data plan to capture the necessary data. Phase 3 will develop a model for cost-consequence analysis and identification of relevant data for microcosting and valuation of consequences. In phase 4, we will determine selected case studies to include in the narrative whereas phase 5 involves collation, data analysis and completion of the reporting of impact.We expect this impact evaluation to comprehensively describe the contribution of the CRE-DH for intentional activity over the CRE-DH lifespan and beyond to improve outcomes for people suffering with chronic and debilitating digestive disorders.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This impact evaluation study has been registered with the Hunter New England Human Research Ethics Committee as project 2024/PID00336 and ethics application 2024/ETH00290. Results of this study will be disseminated via medical conferences, peer-reviewed publications, policy submissions, direct communication with relevant stakeholders, media and social media channels such as X (formely Twitter).

Global prevalence of functional dyspepsia according to Rome criteria, 1990-2020: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Although functional dyspepsia (FD) is a common functional gastroduodenal disorder with a high socioeconomic burden, little is known about its global prevalence. Thus, we performed a comprehensive study to estimate long-term trends in the prevalence of FD. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar from 1990 to 2022 for population-based studies that reported the prevalence of FD in adults (≥ 18 years old) according to Rome I, II, III, or IV criteria. The prevalence of FD was extracted from included studies to obtain pooled prevalence with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and 95% prediction intervals. Subgroup analysis was performed according to certain characteristics, including geographic region. A total of 44 studies met the eligibility criteria, including 256,915 participants from 40 countries across six continents. The overall global pooled prevalence of FD was 8.4% (95% CI 7.4-.9.5). The prevalence was the highest in Rome I (11.9%; 95% CI 5.1-25.4) and lowest in Rome IV (6.8%; 95% CI 5.8-7.9). Developing countries showed a higher prevalence than developed countries (9.1% versus 8.0%), and prevalence was higher in women, irrespective of the definition used (9.0% versus 7.0%). The pooled prevalence gradually decreased from 1990 to 2020 (12.4% [8.2-18.3] in 1990-2002 versus 7.3% [6.1-8.7] in 2013-2020). The prevalence of FD differs by country, economic status, geographical region, and sex, and the global prevalence has been gradually declining. Despite the heterogeneity of sample population, our study estimates the current global burden of FD and provides information to heath care policy decisions.

The epidemioflogy and psychological comorbidity of disorders of gut-brain interaction in Australia: Results from the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study

BACKGROUND

The Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study on the disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) was used to assess the national prevalence of all 22 DGBI, the percentage of respondents meeting diagnostic criteria for at least one DGBI, and the rates of comorbid anxiety, depression, and somatization in Australia and 25 other countries.

METHODS

The survey was conducted in Australia and 25 other countries through the Internet and included the Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaire and an in-depth supplemental questionnaire.

KEY RESULTS

Two thousand thirty-six Australian adults completed the survey nationwide: mean age 47.34 ± 17.00 years, 50.15% males. Overall, 38.67% of Australians met criteria for at least one DGBI, with unspecified functional bowel disorder (8.01%) and then functional constipation (7.71%) being the most prevalent. For those Australians with at least one DGBI, rates of anxiety, depression, and somatization where high (26.58%, 28.96%, and 63.10%, respectively), with functional chest pain having the highest rates of anxiety (55.00%) and depression (57.50%), and irritable bowel syndrome (mixed) having the highest somatization rate (75.86%). The odds of having a DGBI increased with greater anxiety (OR: 1.09, CI 95%: 0.97, 1.23), depression (OR: 1.17, CI 95%: 1.04, 1.32), and somatization (OR: 1.17, CI 95%: 1.14, 1.20) symptom severity.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

The current study represents the most comprehensive epidemiological exploration of DGBI and mental health in Australia to date, including their prevalence and distributions across sex and age, associations between DGBI and anxiety, depression, and somatization. The findings warrants future comparisons between population characteristics and health care systems differences in order to reduce the burden of DGBI and mental illness worldwide.

The duodenal mucosa associated microbiome, visceral sensory function, immune activation and psychological comorbidities in functional gastrointestinal disorders with and without self-reported non-celiac wheat sensitivity

Frequently, patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) report intolerance of wheat products. We compared gastrointestinal symptoms, sensory function, psychiatric comorbidities, gut-homing immune cells, and duodenal mucosa-associated microbiome (d-MAM) in FGID patients and controls with and without self-reported wheat sensitivity (SR-NCWS). We recruited 40 FGID patients and 20 controls referred by GPs for treatment. Gastrointestinal/extraintestinal symptoms, visceral sensory function, psychological comorbidities, and SR-NCWS were assessed in a standardized approach. Peripheral gut homing T-cells (CD4⁺α4⁺β7⁺CCR9⁺/CD8⁺α4⁺β7⁺CCR9⁺) were quantified, and the d-MAM was assessed by DNA sequencing for 46 subjects. Factors of bacterial genera were extracted utilizing factor analysis with varimax rotation and factors univariately associated with FGID or SR-NCWS included in a subsequent multivariate analysis of variance to identify statistically independent discriminators. Anxiety scores (p < .05) and increased symptom responses to a nutrient challenge (p < .05) were univariately associated with FGID. Gut homing T-cells were increased in FGID patients with SR-NCWS compared to other groups (p all <0.05). MANOVA revealed that anxiety (p = .03), visceral sensory function (p = 0.007), and a d-MAM factor comprise members of the Alloprevotella, Prevotella, Peptostreptococcus, Leptotrichia, and Veillonella lineages were significantly (p = .001) associated with FGID, while gut homing CD4⁺α4⁺ β7⁺CCR9⁺ T-cells were associated (p = .002) with SR-NCWS. Compared to controls, patients with and without SR-NCWS show that there are shifts in the amplicon sequence variants within specific bacterial genera between the FGID subgroups (particularly Prevotella and Streptococcus) as well as distinct bacterial taxa discriminatory for the two different FGID subtypes. Compared to controls, both FGID patients with and without SR-NCWS have an increased symptom response to a standardized nutrient challenge and increased anxiety scores. The FGID patients with SR-NCWS - as compared to FGID without SR-NCWS (and controls without SR-NCWS) - have increased gut homing T-cells. The d-MAM profiles suggest species and strain-based variations between the two FGID subtypes and in comparison to controls.

Global Prevalence and Impact of Rumination Syndrome

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Rumination syndrome is a Disorder of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI) of unknown etiology. We aimed to assess its global prevalence and potential associations with other medical conditions.

METHODS

Data were collected via the Internet in 26 countries. Subjects were evenly distributed by country, sex, and age groups and were invited for a "health survey" using the Rome IV diagnostic questionnaire and a supplementary questionnaire addressing factors potentially associated with DGBI.

RESULTS

In all, 54,127 subjects completed the survey (51% male; mean age, 44.3 years). The overall prevalence of rumination syndrome was 3.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.0-3.3%). It was highest in Brazil (5.5% CI, 4.5-6.5) and lowest in Singapore (1.7% CI, 1.1-2.2). The mean age of people with rumination syndrome was 44.5 years (standard deviation, 15.6) and it was more common in females (54.5% vs 45.5%). Factors independently associated with rumination syndrome were depression (odds ratio [OR], 1.46), anxiety (OR, 1.8), body mass index (OR, 1.04), and female sex (OR, 1.19). Subjects with multiple DGBI were at increased risk of having rumination syndrome, with the highest risk in subjects with 4 gastrointestinal regions with DGBI (OR, 15.9 compared with none). Quality of life (QoL) was lower in subjects with rumination syndrome compared with the rest of the cohort (PROMIS-10 score: physical QoL mean 12.9 vs 14.5; mental QoL mean 12.0 vs 13.6).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of rumination syndrome is higher than reported in most previous population studies and is likely underdiagnosed in clinical practice. Awareness of rumination syndrome should be raised among clinicians to improve care for these patients.

Measuring the impact of gastrointestinal inconvenience and symptoms on perceived health in the general population - validation of the Short Health Scale for gastrointestinal symptoms (SHS-GI)

OBJECTIVES

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are intimately related to our wellbeing. The Short Health Scale for GI symptoms (SHS-GI) is a simple questionnaire to measure the impact of GI inconvenience and symptoms on quality of life. The aim was to validate the SHS-GI in a general population sample and to compare it with SHS-data across different patient groups.

METHOD

A subsample of 170 participants from a population-based colonoscopy study completed the Rome II questionnaire, GI diaries, psychological questionnaire (hospital anxiety and depression scale) and SHS-GI at follow-up investigation. Psychometric properties of SHS-GI as an overall score were determined by performing a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Spearman correlation between SHS total score and symptoms was calculated in the general population sample. SHS-GI data was compared with SHS data from patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and fecal incontinence (FI).

RESULTS

As expected, the general population rated their impact of GI inconvenience on quality of life as better than the patient populations in terms of all aspects of the SHS-GI. The CFA showed a good model fit meeting all fit criteria in the general population. Cronbach's alpha for the total scale was 0.80 in the general population sample and ranged from 0.72 in the FI sample to 0.88 and 0.89 in the IBD samples.

CONCLUSIONS

SHS-GI demonstrated appropriate psychometric properties in a sample of the normal population. We suggest that SHS-GI is a valid simple questionnaire suitable for measuring the impact of GI symptoms and inconvenience on quality of life in both general and patient populations.

Sleep disturbances in the irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia are independent of psychological distress: a population-based study of 1322 Australians

BACKGROUND

Psychological distress, strongly associated with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDS), likely plays a central role in the pathophysiology. The role of sleep disturbances in FGIDs is unclear, and an association with psychological factors is uncertain.

AIM

To determine whether sleep disturbances are associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD) and if a potential association is explained by psychological distress.

METHODS

Adult sample randomly selected from a region in New South Wales, Australia in 2015 who returned a follow-up mail survey in 2018 (response rate, 60.5%) that contained questions on IBS, FD, sleep (MOS-Sleep Scale) and psychological distress (Kessler 6 scale).

RESULTS

Among this population, 10.4% (95% CI 8.8-12.2) and 17.9% (95% CI 15.9-20.1) met Rome III criteria for IBS and FD, respectively. The prevalence of any sleep disturbance at least most of the time was common, with a significantly higher prevalence in FGID (IBS and/or FD) compared with the remaining population (41.8% vs 32.2%, P = 0.003). The total sleep problem index was significantly higher for IBS (OR = 1.71 [95% CI 1.29-2.27], P < 0.0001) (IBS-diarrhoea predominant and IBS-mixed but not IBS-constipation) and FD (OR = 1.80 [1.43-2.26], P < 0.0001) (both epigastric pain syndrome and postprandial distress syndrome) even after adjusting for age, sex and psychological distress.

CONCLUSION

Both IBS and FD, and most of their major subtypes except IBS-C, are associated with a range of sleep disturbances. These sleep problems do not appear to be explained by psychological factors and may play an independent role in the pathophysiology.

Uncovering the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome by exploring the gut-brain axis: a narrative review

Objective

To improve the pathophysiological understanding of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by exploring the gut-brain axis.

Background

Disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs) are gastrointestinal (GI) disorders in which alterations in bowel functions occur. IBS, which is one of the most studied DGBIs, is linked with abdominal distress or pain without obvious structural or biochemical anomalies.

Methods

The etiology of IBS has not been clearly described but is known to be multifactorial, involving GI motility changes, post-infectious reactivity, visceral hypersensitivity, gut-brain interactions, microbiota dysbiosis, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, food sensitivity, carbohydrate malabsorption, and intestinal inflammation.

Conclusions

One of the main features of IBS is the occurrence of structural and functional disruptions in the gut-brain axis, which alter reflective and perceptual nervous system reactions. Herein, we provide a brief summary of this topic. Furthermore, we discuss animal models, which are important in the study of IBS, especially as it is linked with stressors. These animal models cannot fully represent the human disease but serve as important tools for understanding this complicated disorder. In the future, technologies, such as organ-on-a-chip models and metabolomics, will provide novel information regarding the pathophysiology of IBS, which will play an important role in treatment development. Finally, we take a brief glance at how acupuncture treatments may hold potential for patients with IBS.

Global prevalence of functional constipation according to the Rome criteria: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Functional constipation is a common functional bowel disorder in the community, which has a varying prevalence across cross-sectional surveys. We did a contemporaneous systematic review and meta-analysis of studies using comparable methodology and all iterations of the Rome criteria to estimate the global prevalence of functional constipation.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Embase Classic from Jan 1, 1990, to Dec 31, 2020, to identify population-based cross-sectional studies comprising at least 50 participants that reported the prevalence of functional constipation in adults (age 18 years and older) according to Rome I, II, III, or IV criteria. We excluded studies that reported the prevalence of functional constipation in convenience samples. We extracted prevalence estimates of functional constipation from eligible studies, according to the study criteria used to define it. For each study, we extracted data for country; method of data collection; criteria used to define functional constipation; whether the study used the Rome I, II, III, or IV diagnostic questionnaires or approximated these definitions of the condition using another questionnaire; the total number of participants providing complete data; age; the number of participants with the condition; the number of male and female participants; and the number of male and female participants with the condition. We calculated pooled prevalence, odds ratios (OR), and 95% CIs.

FINDINGS

Of 8174 citations evaluated, 45 studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria, representing 80 separate populations and comprising 275 260 participants. The pooled prevalence of functional constipation was 15·3% (95% CI 8·1-24·4, I2=99·4%) in studies using the Rome I criteria, 11·2% (7·9-14·9; I2=99·6%) in studies that used Rome II criteria, 10·4% (6·5-14·9; I2=99·8%) in those that used Rome III criteria, and 10·1% (8·7-11·6; I2=98·2%) when Rome IV criteria were used. Prevalence of functional constipation was higher in women, irrespective of the Rome criteria used (OR 2·40 [95% CI 2·02-2·86] for Rome I, 1·94 [1·46-2·57] for Rome II, and 2·32 [1·85-2·92] for Rome III; no studies using Rome IV criteria reported prevalence by sex). There was significant heterogeneity between studies in all of our analyses, which persisted even when the same criteria were applied and similar methodologies used.

INTERPRETATION

Even when uniform symptom-based criteria are used to define the presence of functional constipation, prevalence varies between countries. Thus, environmental, cultural, ethnic, dietary, or genetic factors can influence reporting of symptoms. Future studies should aim to elucidate reasons for this geographical variability.

FUNDING

None.

Clinical diagnosis and treatment of functional anorectal pain

Functional anorectal pain (FARP) is a kind of nonorganic, idiopathic pain that occurs in the anus and/or rectum. The pathogenesis of FARP is very complex, and there is no unified conclusion in the academic world. This paper reviews the clinical diagnosis and treatment of FARP to provide a reference for clinicians.

Is there a causal link between psychological disorders and functional gastrointestinal disorders?

INTRODUCTION

Psychological distress is associated with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD) but only evidence from prospective longitudinal and treatment studies can indicate whether the link between FGIDs and psychological distress is causal. Emerging evidence suggests underlying biological mechanisms may explain the association of psychological distress with FGIDs.

AREAS COVERED

This review critically evaluates whether anxiety and/or depression and FGIDs are causally related including evidence for a temporal sequence, strength and specificity of the association, biological gradient, and biological plausibility.

EXPERT OPINION

Accumulating evidence suggests that psychological factors are causal for symptoms in a subset of FGID patients and not explained by health care seeking behavior (brain-gut disorder). In other cases, psychological factors may arise secondary to intestinal disease (gut-brain disorder). Prospective population-based studies are needed in FGIDs other than IBS and FD to determine if a similar brain-gut and gut-brain syndrome exists. Treatment studies have not phenotyped FGIDs according to brain-gut versus gut-brain origins which may be important in understanding true treatment efficacy. Future research needs to unravel biological mechanisms that may explain the link between psychological factors and FGIDs but promising data in the area of the brain-gut-immune-microbe axis is emerging.

The influence of demographic characteristics on constipation symptoms: a detailed overview

BACKGROUND

Diagnosing constipation remains difficult and its treatment continues to be ineffective. The reason may be that the symptom patterns of constipation differ in different demographic groups. We aimed to determine the pattern of constipation symptoms in different demographic groups and to define the symptoms that best indicate constipation.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study the Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence questionnaire was completed by a representative sample of the adult Dutch population (N = 892). We diagnosed constipation according to the Rome IV criteria for constipation.

RESULTS

The Rome criteria were fulfilled by 15.6% of the study group and we found the highest prevalence of constipation in women and young adults (19.7 and 23.5%, respectively). Symptom patterns differed significantly between constipated respondents of various ages, while we did not observe sex-based differences. Finally, we found a range of constipation symptoms, not included in the Rome IV criteria, that showed marked differences in prevalence between constipated and non-constipated individuals, especially failure to defecate (∆ = 41.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Primarily, we found that certain symptoms of constipation are age-dependent. Moreover, we emphasize that symptoms of constipation not included in the Rome IV criteria, such as daily failure to defecate and an average duration of straining of more than five minutes, are also reliable indicators of constipation. Therefore, we encourage clinicians to adopt a more comprehensive approach to diagnosing constipation.

The Alignment of Dietary Intake and Symptom-Reporting Capture Periods in Studies Assessing Associations between Food and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorder Symptoms: A Systematic Review

Food ingestion is heavily implicated in inducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD), which affect over one-third of adults in developed countries. The primary aim of this paper was to assess the alignment of dietary assessment and symptom-reporting capture periods in diet-related studies on IBS or FD in adults. Secondary aims were to compare the degree of alignment, validity of symptom-reporting tools and reported significant associations between food ingestion and symptoms. A five-database systematic literature search resulted in 40 included studies, from which data were extracted and collated. The food/diet and symptom capture periods matched exactly in 60% (n = 24/40) of studies, overlapped in 30% (n = 12/40) of studies and were not aligned in 10% (n = 4/40) of studies. Only 30% (n = 12/40) of studies that reported a significant association between food and global gastrointestinal symptoms used a validated symptom-reporting tool. Of the thirty (75%) studies that reported at least one significant association between individual gastrointestinal symptoms and dietary intake, only four (13%) used a validated symptom tool. Guidelines to ensure that validated symptom-reporting tools are matched with fit-for-purpose dietary assessment methods are needed to minimise discrepancies in the alignment of food and symptom tools, in order to progress functional gastrointestinal disorder research.

Defining constipation to estimate its prevalence in the community: results from a national survey

BACKGROUND

Different definitions of constipation have been used to estimate its prevalence in the community but this creates difficulties when comparing results from various studies. This study explores the impact of different definitions on prevalence estimates in the same population and compares the performance of simple definitions with the Rome III criteria.

METHODS

The prevalence of constipation in a large nationally representative sample of community-dwelling adults was estimated using five simple definitions of constipation and compared with definitions based on the Rome III criteria. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values, were calculated for each definition using the Rome III criteria as the gold standards for chronic and sub-chronic constipation.

RESULTS

Prevalence estimates for the five simple definitions ranged from 9.4 to 58.9%, while the prevalence estimates using the Rome III criteria were 24.0% (95%CI: 22.1, 25.9) for chronic constipation and 39.6% (95%CI: 37.5, 41.7) for sub-chronic constipation. None of the simple definitions were adequate compared to the Rome III criteria. Self-reported constipation over the past 12 months had the highest sensitivity (91.1%, 95%CI: 88.8, 93.4) and negative predictive value (94.5%, 95%CI: 93.1, 96.1) compared to the Rome III criteria for chronic constipation but an unacceptably low specificity (51.3%, 95%CI: 48.8, 53.8) and positive predictive value (37.1%, 95%CI: 34.4, 39.9).

CONCLUSIONS

The definition used to identify constipation within a population has a considerable impact on the prevalence estimate obtained. Simple definitions, commonly used in research, performed poorly compared with the Rome III criteria. Studies estimating population prevalence of constipation should use definitions based on the Rome criteria where possible.

The prevalence, characteristics, expenditure and predictors of complementary medicine use in Australians living with gastrointestinal disorders: A cross-sectional study

AIMS

To determine the prevalence, characteristics, expenditure and predictors of complementary medicine (CM) use in Australian adults living with gastrointestinal disorders (GID).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study involving 2,025 Australian adults was conducted. Participants were recruited through purposive convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics were conducted to report the prevalence of people living with GIDs and their CM use, including CM products, mind-body practices and CM practitioner services. Chi-square test and independent-samples t-test were used to determine the associations between sociodemographic or health-related variables with CM use. Binary logistic regression was conducted to determine the significant predictors of CM use in GID participants. Economic data was calculated based on the mean out-of-pocket expenditure on CM.

RESULTS

Of the 293 participants reporting a GID, 186 (63.5%) used CM products, 55 (18.8%) used a mind-body practice and 141 (48.1%) visited at least one CM practitioner in the last 12 months. Collectively, the majority of GID participants using any type of CM were female, aged 40-49 years, married and employed. The mean score for health-related quality of life was 49.6 out of 100 in GID participants and 68.2 in participants without a GID (p < 0.001). Average annual out-of-pocket expenditure on CM products was AUD127.29 by CM products users with a GID. The predictors of CM products, mind-body practices and CM practitioner services use differed. Of the 111 CM product users with a GID, 103 (92.8%) disclosed all or some of their CM use to general practitioner, 89 (80.2%) to specialist doctor, 79 (71.2%) to pharmacist and 69 (62.1%) to hospital doctor.

CONCLUSIONS

A substantial proportion of Australian adults living with GID use CM products, mind-body practices and CM practitioner services. This study provides important insights to inform and guide the development of a more coordinated health care services for individuals living with GID.

Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder that presents with abdominal pain related to defecation accompanied by a change in stool frequency or form Despite its impact on a patient’s quality of life it has no effect on mortality

A positive clinical diagnosis should be made if the characteristic symptoms are present and red flags are absent Red flags should prompt specialist referral

Consultations should be provided in an empathetic manner addressing the concerns of the patient while providing reassurance

Manipulating diet with the assistance of a dietitian is an appropriate initial treatment for irritable bowel syndrome A low-FODMAP diet is an effective therapy

Dietary Supplement and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use Are Highly Prevalent in Patients with Gastrointestinal Disorders: Results from an Online Survey

The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widespread among adults in the United States to self-treat a range of disorders, including gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. This study determined the self-reported use of CAM, including dietary supplements, in managing GI symptoms among Internet users and investigated perceived effects of supplement use on GI symptoms. We used a cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational design. A Qualtrics online survey was utilized to collect data through various websites. Focused areas include demographics, health evaluation, health issue(s), supplement and CAM use, and GI symptoms. Of the participants included in the study, a majority (88%) were women and half (50.1%) were between the ages of 26 and 45. Most participants (84.5%) reported use of herbal supplements, and 84.8% of the participants used herbal supplements for a specific health problem. The most common reported health condition was gastroesophageal reflux (44.4%). The attrition rate was low at 22%. The novelty of using an anonymous online survey to collect data on supplement use in GI disorders indicated a high prevalence of dietary and herbal supplement use among persons with GI disorders comparable to previous reports. Health-care providers should ask patients about supplement use in addition to prescribed medications and communicate effectively if conventional pharmacotherapy is not sufficient to manage symptoms or patients are inclined to use supplements.

Uninvestigated dyspepsia and associated factors of patients with gastrointestinal disorders in Dessie Referral Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia

Background

Dyspepsia is a common problem in the community and clinical practice with symptom(s) considered arising from the gastroduodenal region. Dyspepsia burden and associated factors vary from country to country. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia (UD) using Rome III criteria, associated risk factors and self-reported dyspepsia symptoms’ correlation with H. pylori infection.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected 318 out patients with gastrointestinal complaints during the period from September 1 to December 30, 2015. All patients completed a questionnaire for collecting data regarding sociodemographic, lifestyle and functional gastrointestinal disorders. Diagnosis of dyspepsia was made according to the Rome III criteria. H. pylori infection was assessed using stool antigen test. SPSS version 20.0 statistical software package was used for data analysis.

Results

From a total of 318 patients, 48.4% had UD according to Rome III criteria; with 42.1% symptoms of epigastric pain/burning, 26.1% postprandial fullness and 22.6% early satiation. Epigastric pain/burning (AOR = 1.92, 95% CI 1.07–3.43), early satiation (AOR = 2.68, 95% CI 1.38–5.20) and belching (AOR = 4.7, 95% CI 1.54–14.40) were significantly correlated with H. pylori infection. H. pylori infection (AOR = 4.33, 95% CI 2.41–7.76) and aspirin/NSAIDs consumption (AOR = 5.29, 95% CI 2.82–9.93) were independent risk factors for UD. However, consumption of raw fruits/ vegetables at least once a week (AOR = 0.48, 95% CI 0.24–0.98) and taking two or more cups of tea a day (AOR = 0.339, 95% CI 0.17–0.70) were inversely associated with UD.

Conclusions

UD is highly prevalent among adults with gastrointestinal complaints. H. pylori infection is significantly associated with UD and correlates with its symptoms. Individuals with epigastric pain/burning, early satiation and belching should be primary focus of H. pylori infection diagnosis and treatment. The role of consumption of tea, raw fruits and vegetables on dyspepsia needs further large scale study.

The Prevalence and Impact of Overlapping Rome IV-Diagnosed Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders on Somatization, Quality of Life, and Healthcare Utilization: A Cross-Sectional General Population Study in Three Countries

OBJECTIVES

The population prevalence of Rome IV-diagnosed functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) and their cumulative effect on health impairment is unknown.

METHODS

An internet-based cross-sectional health survey was completed by 5,931 of 6,300 general population adults from three English-speaking countries (2100 each from USA, Canada, and UK). Quota-based sampling was used to generate demographically balanced and population representative samples with regards to age, sex, and education level. The survey enquired for demographics, medication, surgical history, somatization, quality of life (QOL), doctor-diagnosed organic GI disease, and criteria for the Rome IV FGIDs. Comparisons were made between those with Rome IV-diagnosed FGIDs against non-GI (healthy) and organic GI disease controls.

RESULTS

The number of subjects having symptoms compatible with a FGID was 2,083 (35%) compared with 3,421 (57.7%) non-GI and 427 (7.2%) organic GI disease controls. The most frequently met diagnostic criteria for FGIDs was bowel disorders (n=1,665, 28.1%), followed by gastroduodenal (n=627, 10.6%), anorectal (n=440, 7.4%), esophageal (n=414, 7%), and gallbladder disorders (n=10, 0.2%). On average, the 2,083 individuals who met FGID criteria qualified for 1.5 FGID diagnoses, and 742 of them (36%) qualified for FGID diagnoses in more than one anatomic region. The presence of FGIDs in multiple regions was associated with increasing somatization, worse mental/physical QOL, more medical therapies, and a higher prevalence of abdominal surgeries; all P<0.001. Notably, individuals with FGIDs in multiple regions had greater somatization and worse QOL than organic GI disease controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Roughly a third of the general adult population fulfils diagnostic criteria for a Rome IV FGID. In a third of this subset multiple GI regions are involved and this overlap is associated with increased health impairment.

The neurokinin-2 receptor antagonist ibodutant improves overall symptoms, abdominal pain and stool pattern in female patients in a phase II study of diarrhoea-predominant IBS

BACKGROUND

Tachykinins have been implicated in the pathophysiology of IBS with diarrhoea (IBS-D). Our aim was to study the efficacy and safety of ibodutant, a selective neurokinin-2 (NK2) receptor antagonist, in patients with IBS-D.

METHODS

This multinational double-blind, placebo-controlled study recruited 559 patients with IBS-D according to Rome III criteria. After a 2-week treatment-free run-in, patients were randomised to ibodutant 1 mg, 3 mg, 10 mg or placebo once daily for eight consecutive weeks. Responders were those with a combined response of satisfactory relief (weekly binary question yes/no) of overall IBS symptoms and abdominal pain/discomfort on ≥75% weeks (primary end point). Secondary end points included abdominal pain and stool pattern. Data were also analysed according to US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved interim end points (improvement of pain and stool consistency). Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events and laboratory tests. Prespecified statistical analysis involved the whole group as well as gender subgroups.

RESULTS

Demographics and baseline characteristics were comparable for all treatment arms. In the overall population, responsiveness tended to increase with escalating ibodutant doses. In the prespecified analysis by gender, ibodutant 10 mg demonstrated significant superiority over placebo in females (p=0.003), while no significant effect occurred in males. This was confirmed for secondary end points and for the responder analysis according to FDA-approved end points. The tolerability and safety of ibodutant was excellent at all doses.

CONCLUSIONS

Ibodutant showed dose-dependent efficacy response in IBS-D, reaching statistical significance at the 10 mg dose in female patients. The safety and tolerability profile of ibodutant was similar to placebo.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01303224.

Role of three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound in assessing the anal sphincter morphology of female patients with chronic proctalgia

AIM

To assess the role of three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound (3D-EAUS) for morphological assessment of the anal sphincter of female patients with chronic proctalgia (CP).

METHODS

In this unmatched case control study, 30 consecutive female patients with CP and 25 normal women (control group) were enrolled. 3D-EAUS was performed in all subjects. Thickness and length of internal anal sphincter (IAS), thickness of puborectalis muscle (PR), length of the external anal sphincter (EAS) plus PR, and puborectalis angle were measured and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Patients with CP had significantly shorter IAS length and greater PR thickness, as compared to those in normal individuals (26.28 ± 3.59 mm vs 28.87 ± 4.84 mm, P < 0.05 and 9.67 ± 1.57 mm vs 8.85 ± 0.97 mm, P < 0.05, respectively). No significant between-group differences were observed with respect to IAS thickness and the EAS plus PR length (P > 0.05). Puborectalis angle in the CP group was significantly decreased, both in resting (88.23° ± 1.81° vs 89.94° ± 2.07° in control group, P < 0.05) and straining (88.47° ± 3.32° vs 90.72° ± 1.87° in control group, P < 0.05) phases, which suggest the presence of paradoxical contraction of PR in patients with CP. In the CP group, no significant difference in puborectalis angle was observed between the resting and straining phases (88.23° ± 1.81° vs 88.47° ± 3.32° respectively, P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The association of greater PR thickness and paradoxical contraction of PR with CP suggest their potential value as markers of CP.

On the prevalence of constipation and fecal incontinence, and their co-occurrence, in the Netherlands

PURPOSE

Numerous studies have investigated the prevalence of constipation and fecal incontinence (FI) in the general population and, even though these disorders are known to co-occur, they were studied independently of each other. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of constipation and FI, and their co-occurrence, in the general population in the Netherlands.

METHODS

We studied a cross-section of the Dutch population (N = 1259). All respondents completed the Groningen Defecation & Fecal Continence checklist. We defined constipation and FI in accordance with the Rome III criteria.

RESULTS

We found that 24.5% (95% CI, 22.1-26.8) suffered from constipation, 7.9% (95% CI, 6.4-9.4) suffered from FI, and 3.5% (95% CI, 2.5-4.5) suffered from both disorders. Constipated respondents were 2.7 times more likely to suffer from FI than non-constipated respondents (95% CI, 1.8-4.0). Moreover, 48.7% of the respondents with constipation, 35.0% with FI, and 38.6% in whom the disorders co-occurred qualified their bowel habits as either "good" or "very good". We found that 49.4% of the respondents with constipation and 48.0% with FI had not discussed their complaints with anyone.

CONCLUSIONS

Constipation and FI, isolated or co-occurring, are common disorders in the general population, even in young and healthy respondents. Since constipation and FI often co-occur, we recommend that patients who seek medical attention for either disorder should be examined for both. Moreover, constipation and/or FI are not always identified appropriately by patients. Therefore, physicians should take the initiative to diagnose and treat these disorders.

Systematic review of the prevalence of faecal incontinence

BACKGROUND

Faecal incontinence (FI) is widely recognized as a significant problem in the community. Conjecture exists around the proportion of the population affected. This systematic review evaluated studies reporting the community prevalence of FI in terms of methodology, design and definitions.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, the Cochrane Collaboration and National Guideline databases were searched for studies investigating the prevalence of FI in community-based adults published from January 1966 to February 2015. Study data, including methodology, sample size, response rate, definition of FI and prevalence rates, were extracted on to a pro forma and appraised critically. Where possible, FI prevalence estimates were pooled.

RESULTS

Thirty studies were analysed from 4840 screened articles. FI prevalence estimates varied from 1·4 to 19·5 per cent. This variation was explained by differences in data collection method and two factors within definitions of FI: type of stool and frequency of FI episodes. When these factors were accounted for, the FI prevalence at a threshold of at least once per month for liquid or solid stool was 8·3-8·4 per cent for face-to-face or telephone interviews, and 11·2-12·4 per cent for postal surveys. The pooled prevalence rate from studies for functional FI (defined by ROME II criteria) was 5·9 (95 per cent c.i. 5·6 to 6·3) per cent.

CONCLUSION

When comparable methodologies and definitions are used, studies produce remarkably similar prevalence rates in different community populations. FI remains an unspoken symptom, with lower rates reported in personal interviews compared with anonymous postal questionnaires.

Fecal Incontinence: Community Prevalence and Associated Factors--A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Fecal incontinence is a chronic and debilitating condition with significant health burden. Despite its clinical relevance, the prevalence of fecal incontinence remains inconsistently described.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to systematically review the literature regarding the prevalence of and factors associated with fecal incontinence among community-dwelling adults.

DATA SOURCES

A search of the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases was performed.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies that reported the prevalence of fecal incontinence and/or associated factors in a community-based (ie, unselected) adult population were included. Two independent assessors reviewed eligible articles.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Relevant data were extracted from each study and presented in descriptive form. The main outcome measures included the prevalence of fecal incontinence (adjusted and/or unadjusted), stratified for age and sex if reported; factors associated (and not associated) with fecal incontinence; and study quality, assessed using predefined criteria.

RESULTS

Of 3523 citations identified, 38 studies were included for review. The reported median prevalence of fecal incontinence was 7.7% (range, 2.0%-20.7%). Fecal incontinence equally affected both men (median, 8.1%; range, 2.3%-16.1%) and women (median, 8.9%; range, 2.0%-20.7%) and increased with age (15-34 years, 5.7%; >90 years, 15.9%). The study populations and diagnostic criteria used were heterogeneous, precluding any meaningful pooling of prevalence estimates. Study quality assessment revealed 6 high-quality studies, of which only 3 were performed in a representative sample. The median prevalence of fecal incontinence was higher in these studies at 11.2% (range, 8.3%-13.2%). The factors most commonly reported to be associated with fecal incontinence included increasing age, diarrhea, and urinary incontinence.

LIMITATIONS

Heterogeneity of studies precluded meaningful pooling or meta-analysis of data.

CONCLUSIONS

Fecal incontinence is a prevalent condition of equal sex distribution, affecting ≈1 in 8 community adults, and has identifiable associated factors. The paucity of high-quality prevalence studies emphasizes the need for future population-based studies that use standardized diagnostic criteria for fecal incontinence.

Global prevalence of, and risk factors for, uninvestigated dyspepsia: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Many cross-sectional surveys have reported the prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia, but there has been no recent systematic review of data from all studies to determine its global prevalence and risk factors.

DESIGN

MEDLINE, EMBASE and EMBASE Classic were searched (until January 2014) to identify population-based studies that reported the prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia in adults (≥ 15 years old); dyspepsia was defined using symptom-based criteria or questionnaires. The prevalence of dyspepsia was extracted for all studies and according to the criteria used to define it. Pooled prevalence, according to study location and certain other characteristics, ORs and 95% CIs were calculated.

RESULTS

Of the 306 citations evaluated, 103 reported the prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia in 100 separate study populations, containing 312,415 subjects. Overall pooled prevalence in all studies was 20.8% (95% CI 17.8% to 23.9%). The prevalence varied according to country (from 1.8% to 57.0%) and criteria used to define dyspepsia. The greatest prevalence values were found when a broad definition of dyspepsia (29.5%; 95% CI 25.3% to 33.8%) or upper abdominal or epigastric pain or discomfort (20.4%; 95% CI 16.3% to 24.8%) were used. The prevalence was higher in women (OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.13 to 1.36), smokers (OR 1.25; 95% CI 1.12 to 1.40), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) users (OR 1.59; 95% CI 1.27 to 1.99) and Helicobacter pylori-positive individuals (OR 1.18; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.33).

CONCLUSIONS

The overall pooled prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia was 21%, but varied among countries and according to the criteria used to define its presence. Prevalence is significantly higher in women, smokers, NSAID users and H. pylori-positive individuals, although these associations were modest.

Tiaoshen acupuncture for diarrhea type IBS in patients with chronic hepatitis B (liver stagnation and spleen deficiency syndrome): Curative effect and influence on plasma SP and VIP

AIM: To assess the curative efficacy of Tiaoshen acupuncture for diarrhea type irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients (liver stagnation and spleen deficiency syndrome) and its impact on serum levels of substance P (SP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP).

METHODS: One hundred and eight patients were randomly assigned to two groups (a treatment group and a control group) to receive both acupuncture and sham acupuncture treatment for 4 wk. The treatment group received acupuncture at gastric area and intestinal area of scalp acupuncture, and sham acupuncture at Tianshu, Zusanli, and Taichong. The control group were acupunctured at Tianshu, Zusanli, and Taichong, and sham-acupunctured at gastric area and intestinal area of scalp acupuncture. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome curative efficacy, TCM syndrome scores and serum levels of SP and VIP were evaluated before and after therapy.

RESULTS: A total of 96 patients (including 49 in the treatment group) completed the four-week study. Clinical curative effect in the treatment group was significantly better than that in the control group [89.80% (44/49) vs 65.96% (31/47), P < 0.05]. Compared with pretreatment values, TCM syndromes of both groups after treatment were decreased significantly [(26.4 ± 3.6) vs (8.5 ± 1.8); (25.3 ± 2.5) vs (15.6 ± 2.7)], while the treatment group showed a more significant decrease compared with the control group [(8.5 ± 1.8) vs (15.6 ± 2.7), P < 0.05]. After treatment, serum levels of SP and VIP in the two groups decreased significantly [SP: (43.68 ± 15.15) vs (22.08 ± 11.47); VIP: (45.24 ± 15.07) vs (34.52 ± 14.76)], and the decrease was more significant in the treatment group [SP: (38.44 ± 13.57) vs (16.31 ± 13.72); VIP: (37.13 ± 10.19) vs (25.47 ± 12.75), P < 0.05]. There were no adverse reactions or seroconversion in the study.

CONCLUSION: Tiaoshen acupuncture has a better clinical efficacy in CHB patients with diarrhea type IBS (liver stagnation and spleen deficiency syndrome) than traditional acupuncture treatment. Tiaoshen acupuncture may alleviate syndromes of CHB patients with diarrhea type IBS by altering serum levels of SP and VIP and thereby modulating intestine-brain responses.

Prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders in infants and toddlers

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms suggestive of an infant/toddler functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID) as reported by parents in a representative community sample.

STUDY DESIGN

Mothers (n = 320) of children aged 0-3 years old were recruited in the US and completed a questionnaire about their child's and their own gastrointestinal symptoms.

RESULTS

By Rome criteria, 27% of infants/toddlers qualified for FGIDs. Infant regurgitation was the most common disorder in infants and functional constipation in toddlers. No age, sex, or race differences were found in FGID diagnoses. Compared with those who did not meet Rome criteria, toddlers with FGID had lower quality of life (M = 80.1 vs M = 90.3, P < .001), increased medical visits (M = 0.38 vs 0.14; P < .05), mental health visits (M = 0.29 vs 0.06; P < .05), and hospital stays (M = 0.35 vs 0.06; P < .01). A child was more likely to suffer from hard stools if the parent also reported hard stools (P = .02), but similar association was not found with loose stools.

CONCLUSIONS

FGIDs are common in infants and toddlers and can be identified in the general population. They do not vary with sex and race. Quality of life is reduced in those with FGIDs. More research is needed into these largely neglected conditions as it may improve the lives of a significant number of young children.

Prevalence of functional bowel disorders and faecal incontinence: an Australian primary care survey

AIM

Interest in functional bowel disorders (FBDs) and faecal incontinence (FI) has increased amongst coloproctologists. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of FBDs and FI (including its severity) among Australian primary healthcare seekers using objective criteria.

METHOD

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in a primary care setting in Sydney, Australia. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect demographic information and diagnose FBDs (irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, functional bloating and functional diarrhoea) based on Rome III criteria. The severity of FI was determined using the Vaizey incontinence score. Associations with medical/surgical history and healthcare utilization were assessed.

RESULTS

Of 596 subjects approached, 396 (66.4%) agreed to participate. Overall, 33% had FBD and/or FI. Irritable bowel syndrome was present in 11.1% and these participants were more likely to report anxiety/depression (P < 0.01) and to have had a previous colonoscopy (P < 0.001) or cholecystectomy (P = 0.02). Functional constipation was present in 8.1%, and functional bloating and functional diarrhoea were diagnosed in 6.1%, and 1.5%, respectively. FI was present in 12.1% with the majority (52%) reporting moderate/severe incontinence (Vaizey score > 8). Participants with FI were more likely to have irritable bowel syndrome, urinary incontinence and previous anal surgery (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

FBDs and FI are prevalent conditions amongst primary healthcare seekers and the needs of those affected appear to be complex given their coexisting symptoms and conditions. Currently, the majority do not reach colorectal services, although increased awareness by primary care providers could lead to sufferers being referred for specialist management.

Functional brain imaging in gastroenterology: to new beginnings

With more than 100 studies published over the past two decades, functional brain imaging research in gastroenterology has become an established field; one that has enabled improved insight into the supraspinal responses evoked by gastrointestinal stimulation both in health and disease. However, there remains considerable inter-study variation in the published results, largely owing to methodological differences in stimulation and recording techniques, heterogeneous patient selection, lack of control for psychological factors and so on. These issues with reproducibility, although not unique to studies of the gastrointestinal tract, can lead to unjustified inferences. To obtain consistent and more clinically relevant results, there is a need to optimize and standardize brain imaging studies across different centres. In addition, the use of complementary and more novel brain imaging modalities and analyses, which are now being used in other fields of research, might help unravel the factors at play in functional gastrointestinal disorders. This Review highlights the areas in which functional brain imaging has been useful and what it has revealed, the areas that are in need of improvement, and finally suggestions for future directions.

Irritable bowel syndrome: pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and evidence-based medicine

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic and debilitating functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects 9%-23% of the population across the world. The percentage of patients seeking health care related to IBS approaches 12% in primary care practices and is by far the largest subgroup seen in gastroenterology clinics. It has been well documented that these patients exhibit a poorer quality of life and utilize the health care system to a greater degree than patients without this diagnosis. The pathophysiology of IBS is not clear. Many theories have been put forward, but the exact cause of IBS is still uncertain. According to the updated ROME III criteria, IBS is a clinical diagnosis and presents as one of the three predominant subtypes: (1) IBS with constipation (IBS-C); (2) IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D); and (3) mixed IBS (IBS-M); former ROME definitions refer to IBS-M as alternating IBS (IBS-A). Across the IBS subtypes, the presentation of symptoms may vary among patients and change over time. Patients report the most distressing symptoms to be abdominal pain, straining, myalgias, urgency, bloating and feelings of serious illness. The complexity and diversity of IBS presentation makes treatment difficult. Although there are reviews and guidelines for treating IBS, they focus on the efficacy of medications for IBS symptoms using high-priority endpoints, leaving those of lower priority largely unreported. Therefore, the aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive evidence-based review of the diagnosis, pathogenesis and treatment to guide clinicians diagnosing and treating their patients.

Development of evidence-based Australian medication-related indicators of potentially preventable hospitalisations: a modified RAND appropriateness method

OBJECTIVE

Indicators of potentially preventable hospitalisations have been adopted internationally as a measure of health system performance; however, few assess appropriate processes of care around medication use, that if followed may prevent hospitalisation. The aim of this study was to develop and validate evidence-based medication-related indicators of potentially preventable hospitalisations.

SETTING

Australian primary healthcare.

PARTICIPANTS

Medical specialists, general practitioners and pharmacists. A modified RAND appropriateness method was used for the development of medication-related indicators of potentially preventable hospitalisations, which included a literature review, assessment of the strength of the supporting evidence base, an initial face and content validity by an expert panel, followed by an independent assessment of indicators by an expert clinical panel across various disciplines, using an online survey.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE

Analysis of ratings was performed on the four key elements of preventability; the medication-related problem must be recognisable, the adverse outcomes foreseeable and the causes and outcomes identifiable and controllable.

RESULTS

A total of 48 potential indicators across all major disease groupings were developed based on level III evidence or greater, that were independently assessed by 78 expert clinicians (22.1% response rate). The expert panel considered 29 of these (60.4%) sufficiently valid. Of these, 21 (72.4%) were based on level I evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a set of face and content validated indicators of medication-related potentially preventable hospitalisations, linking suboptimal processes of care and medication use with subsequent hospitalisation. Further analysis is required to establish operational validity in a population-based sample, using an administrative health database. Implementation of these indicators within routine monitoring of healthcare systems will highlight those conditions where hospitalisations could potentially be avoided through improved medication management.

THAOS: gastrointestinal manifestations of transthyretin amyloidosis - common complications of a rare disease

Background

Transthyretin amyloidosis is a systemic disorder caused by amyloid deposits formed by misfolded transthyretin monomers. Two main forms exist: hereditary and wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis, the former associated with transthyretin gene mutations. There are several disease manifestations; however, gastrointestinal complications are common in the hereditary form. The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence and distribution of gastrointestinal manifestations in transthyretin amyloidosis and to evaluate their impact on the patients’ nutritional status and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods

The Transthyretin Amyloidosis Outcomes Survey (THAOS) is the first global, multicenter, longitudinal, observational survey that collects data on patients with transthyretin amyloidosis and the registry is sponsored by Pfizer Inc. This study presents baseline data from patients enrolled in THAOS as of June 2013. The modified body mass index (mBMI), in which BMI is multiplied with serum albumin, was used to assess the nutritional status and the EQ-5D Index was used to assess HRQoL.

Results

Data from 1579 patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis and 160 patients with wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis were analyzed. Sixty-three percent of those with the hereditary form and 15% of those with the wild-type form reported gastrointestinal symptoms at enrollment. Unintentional weight loss and early satiety were the most frequent symptoms, reported by 32% and 26% of those with transthyretin gene mutations, respectively. Early-onset patients (<50 years) reported gastrointestinal complaints more frequently than those with a late onset (p < 0.001) and gastrointestinal symptoms were more common in patients with the V30M mutation than in those with other mutations (p < 0.001). For patients with predominantly cardiac complications, the prevalence of gastrointestinal manifestations was not evidently higher than that expected in the general population. Both upper and lower gastrointestinal symptoms were significant negative predictors of mBMI and the EQ-5D Index Score (p < 0.001 for all).

Conclusions

Gastrointestinal symptoms were common in patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis and had a significant negative impact on their nutritional status and HRQoL. However, patients with wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis or transthyretin mutations associated with predominantly cardiac complications did not show an increased prevalence of gastrointestinal disturbances.

Treatment of chronic anorectal pain by acupuncture

Chronic anorectal pain is a common functional anorectal disease. Currently, there are still some difficulties in diagnosing and treating this disease. Acupuncture has advantages in treating chronic anorectal pain. This article will summarize the progress in treatment of chronic anorectal pain by acupuncture.

The epidemiology of irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional condition of the bowel that is diagnosed using clinical criteria. This paper discusses the nature of the diagnostic process for IBS and how this impacts epidemiological measurements. Depending on the diagnostic criteria employed, IBS affects around 11% of the population globally. Around 30% of people who experience the symptoms of IBS will consult physicians for their IBS symptoms. These people do not have significantly different abdominal symptoms to those who do not consult, but they do have greater levels of anxiety and lower quality of life. Internationally, there is a female predominance in the prevalence of IBS. There is 25% less IBS diagnosed in those over 50 years and there is no association with socioeconomic status. IBS aggregates within families and the genetic and sociological factors potentially underlying this are reviewed. Patients diagnosed with IBS are highly likely to have other functional disease and have more surgery than the general population. There is no evidence that IBS is associated with an increased mortality risk. The epidemiological evidence surrounding these aspects of the natural history is discussed.

Functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract: Cost effectiveness review

BACKGROUND

The project aim was to review current cost-effectiveness research for each functional gastrointestinal disorder, as defined by the Rome III classification system.

METHODS

Biomedical databases were searched for articles with the functional gastrointestinal disorders and their pseudonyms included in the title, abstract, or medical subject headings, plus the terms benefit, cost, effectiveness, outcomes, test, utility, or utilization in any search field.

RESULTS

Highly prevalent conditions such as dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome have advanced cost-effectiveness analyses including cost-utility studies that have helped support current management guidelines. The rarer functional gastrointestinal disorders have few or no published cost-effectiveness analyses, but the Rome III classification system provides a framework for identifying the specific cost data or outcomes measures available or needed for future research.

CONCLUSIONS

The Rome process has provided a useful system for defining the functional gastrointestinal disorders and identifying specific clinical questions to be examined using cost-effectiveness analysis techniques.

The association of personality, appraisal, catastrophising and vigilance with gastrointestinal symptom-specific anxiety

This study investigates the relationship between psychosocial factors and functional gastrointestinal disorder symptomatology by testing a more comprehensive and integrated model than found in prior research. A total of 233 respondents completed an online battery to assess factors such as personality, dysfunctional cognitions and gastrointestinal anxiety. Results based on path modelling provided support for the majority of the hypothesised pathways. This study implicates a number of personality factors and dysfunctional cognitive processes as relevant to functional gastrointestinal disorder symptom burden. These findings have implications for future research, including which dysfunctional cognitive processes should be targeted therapeutically.

Investigation of the effect of military stress on the prevalence of functional bowel disorders

AIM: To investigate the morbidity of functional bowel disorders (FBD) under military stress conditions in order to lay foundations for the prevention and treatment of this disease.

METHODS: Four hundred and fifty-seven soldiers who were assigned to specified services and 471 soldiers who were assigned to routine services were enrolled using cluster sampling, with the latter as a control group. They were surveyed using the Rome III FBD standard questionnaire. The FBD symptom questionnaire included FBD-related symptoms, severity, duration or attack time, and accompanying symptoms.

RESULTS: The morbidity of the military stress group (14.6%) was significantly higher than in the control group (9.98%) (χ² = 4.585, P < 0.05). The incidence of smoking, abdominal pain and acid regurgitation (χ² = 4.761, P < 0.05) as well as the ZUNG anxiety/depression scores (χ² = 7.982, P < 0.01) were also significantly higher in the military stress group compared with the control group. ZUNG anxiety (χ² = 11.523, P < 0.01) and depression (χ² = 5.149, P < 0.05) scores were higher in the FBD group compared with the non-FBD group. The differences in the ZUNG self-rated anxiety and depression scales between the 2 groups were statistically significant (χ² = 14.482, P < 0.01 and χ² = 6.176, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: The morbidity of FBD was higher under military stress conditions.

A global perspective on irritable bowel syndrome: a consensus statement of the World Gastroenterology Organisation Summit Task Force on irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is common in western Europe and North America, and many aspects of its epidemiology, risk factors, and natural history have been described in these regions. Recent data suggest, however, that IBS is also common in the rest of the world and there has been some evidence to suggest some differences in demographics and presenting features between IBS in the west and as it is experienced elsewhere. The World Gastroenterology Organization, therefore, established a Task Force comprising experts on the topic from all parts of the world to examine IBS from a global perspective. IBS does, indeed, seem to be common worldwide though with some significant variations in prevalence rates between regions and countries and there may well be some potentially interesting variations in presenting symptoms and sex distribution. The global map of IBS is far from complete; community-based prevalence data is not available from many areas. Furthermore, while some general trends are evident in terms of IBS impact and demographics, international comparisons are hampered by differences in diagnostic criteria, study location and methodology; several important unanswered questions have been identified that should form the basis for future collaborative research and have the potential to shed light on this challenging disorder.

The epidemiology of functional gastrointestinal disorders in Mexico: a population-based study

Aims. The frequency of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in the general population of Mexico is unknown. Methods. To determine the prevalence of FGIDs, associated depression, and health care utilization, a population-based sampling strategy was used to select 500 households in the State of Tlaxcala, in central Mexico. Household interviews were conducted by two trained physicians using the Rome II Modular Questionnaire, a health-care and medication used questionnaire and the CES-D depression scale. Results. The most common FGIDs were IBS: 16.0% (95% CI: 12.9-19.5); functional bloating: 10.8% (8.2-13.9); unspecified functional bowel disorder: 10.6% (8.0-13.6); and functional constipation (FC): 7.4% (5.3-10.1). Uninvestigated heartburn was common: 19.6% (16.2-23.4). All FGIDs were equally prevalent among both genders, except for IBS (P = 0.001), IBS-C (P < 0.001), IBS-A/M (P = 0.049), and FC (P = 0.039) which were more frequent in women. Subjects with FGIDs reported higher frequencies of medical visits: 34.6 versus 16.8%; use of medications: 40.7 versus 21.6%; (both P < 0.001); and reported depression: 26.7 versus 6.7%, (P < 0.001). Conclusion. In this first population-based study of FGIDs in Mexico, heartburn, IBS, functional distension, and FC were common. Only IBS, IBS-C, IBS-A/M, and FC were more frequent in women. Finally, FGIDs in Mexico had an increased burden of health care utilization and depression.

Prevalence of, and risk factors for, chronic idiopathic constipation in the community: systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder in the community, yet no previous systematic review and meta-analysis has estimated the global prevalence, or potential risk factors for the condition.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and EMBASE Classic were searched (up to December 2010) to identify population-based studies reporting the prevalence of CIC in adults (≥15 years), according to self-report, questionnaire, or specific symptom-based criteria. The prevalence of CIC was extracted for all studies, and according to country, age, gender, socioeconomic status, and presence or absence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) where reported. Pooled prevalence overall, and according to study location and certain other characteristics, as well as odds ratios (ORs), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

RESULTS

Of the 100 papers evaluated, 45 reported the prevalence of CIC in 41 separate study populations, containing 261,040 subjects. Pooled prevalence of CIC in all studies was 14% (95% CI: 12-17%). The prevalence of CIC was lower in South East Asian studies, and in studies using the Rome II or III criteria. The prevalence of CIC was higher in women (OR: 2.22; 95% CI: 1.87-2.62), and increased with age and lower socioeconomic status. The prevalence was markedly higher in subjects who also reported IBS (OR: 7.98; 95% CI: 4.58-13.92), suggesting common pathogenic mechanisms.

CONCLUSIONS

Pooled prevalence of CIC in the community was 14%, and of similar magnitude in most geographical regions. Rates were higher in women, older individuals, and those of lower socioeconomic status. Presence of IBS was strongly associated with CIC.

Meta-analysis: the epidemiology of noncardiac chest pain in the community

BACKGROUND

Prevalence of, and risk factors for, noncardiac chest pain in the community have not been well studied.

AIMS

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine these issues.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE and EMBASE Classic were searched (up to March 2011) to identify population-based studies reporting prevalence of noncardiac chest pain in adults (≥15 years) according to self-report, questionnaire or specific symptom-based criteria. Prevalence of noncardiac chest pain was extracted for all studies, and according to study location and certain other characteristics including presence or absence of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms, where reported. Pooled prevalence overall, as well as odds ratios (OR), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

RESULTS

Of 18 articles evaluated, 16 reported prevalence of noncardiac chest pain in 14 separate populations, containing 24 849 subjects. Pooled prevalence of noncardiac chest pain in all studies was 13% (95% CI 9-16). The prevalence of noncardiac chest pain was higher in Australian studies and in studies using a questionnaire to define its presence, compared with those using Rome I or II criteria. Prevalence was no different in women vs. men (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.82-1.20). The prevalence was markedly higher in subjects who also reported GERD (OR 4.71; 95% CI 3.32-6.70) and increased according to frequency of GERD symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Pooled prevalence of noncardiac chest pain in the community was 13%, but there were few studies. Rates did not appear to differ according to gender or age. Presence of GERD was strongly associated with noncardiac chest pain.