Increase in Gut-Brain Interaction Disorders Post-Pandemic

Recent research indicates a notable rise in the prevalence of disorders related to the gut-brain axis following the COVID-19 pandemic. A comprehensive study published online on July 30, 2025, in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, analyzed data from surveys conducted in both the United Kingdom and the United States. The surveys, carried out in 2017 and 2023 respectively, included over 8,000 participants and utilized the Rome IV diagnostic criteria to assess the presence of gut-brain interaction disorders (DGBI).

The study revealed that overall DGBI prevalence increased from 38.3% before the pandemic to 42.6% afterward, marking a significant rise. This trend was consistent across both countries and spanned various subdomains of DGBI, including esophageal, gastroduodenal, and bowel disorders, with odds ratios of 1.16, 1.45, and 1.12 respectively. Notably, the most substantial increases were observed in functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome, with odds ratios of 1.48 and 1.31.

Factors strongly associated with the increased prevalence include younger age, female gender, anxiety, depression, higher severity of somatic symptoms, multiple COVID-19 infections, experiencing abdominal pain or diarrhea during infection, and long COVID symptoms. These findings suggest that the pandemic has contributed to an escalation in gut-brain disorders, highlighting the need for healthcare systems to prepare for managing the increased burden. Funding for the research was provided by Tillotts Pharma and Novonesis, and some authors disclosed ties to the biopharmaceutical industry.

As the prevalence of DGBI rises, medical professionals are urged to develop better diagnostic and management strategies to address this growing health concern. The findings emphasize the wider impacts of COVID-19 on mental and gastrointestinal health, underscoring the importance of integrated care approaches.