Prevalence and Impact of Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction in Indonesia: An Analysis from the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study

Abstract

Background and Aims: Disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) significantly impact quality of life (QoL), healthcare utilization, and work productivity globally, yet data from Indonesia remain limited. This household face-to-face survey study aimed to investigate the prevalence and impact of DGBI on psychological distress, dietary habits, QoL, and healthcare utilization among the Indonesian population based on Rome IV criteria.

Methods: A total of 1,339 Indonesian participants from the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study were included in the final analysis. The overall prevalence of DGBI diagnoses in Indonesia was examined, including age- and sex-specific prevalence rates. Additionally, the association of DGBI with psychological distress (somatization, anxiety, depression), QoL, healthcare utilization, and dietary patterns were assessed.

Results: In Indonesia, the overall prevalence of DGBI was 18.2% (95%CI: 16.2-20.4%). Based on anatomical sites, bowel disorders were most prevalent (13.2%; 95%CI: 11.5-15.1%), followed by gastroduodenal disorders (6.0%; 95%CI: 4.9-7.4%), anorectal disorders (2.0%; 95%CI: 1.4-2.9%), and esophageal disorders (1.9%; 95%CI: 1.2-2.7%). Participants with DGBI (n=244) exhibited significantly higher psychological distress, including increased somatization, anxiety, and depression, as well as lower QoL compared to those without DGBI (n=1,095). Additionally, individuals with DGBI demonstrated significantly higher healthcare utilization rates. Dietary patterns also differed markedly in DGBI participants, characterized by significantly higher consumption of milk and pasta and reduced intake of vegetables, legumes, and rice.

Conclusions: DGBI represents a significant health burden in Indonesia, substantially impacting psychological well-being, dietary behaviors, healthcare resource utilization, and overall QoL, consistent with global trends.