Prevalence of Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction in Indonesian Adolescents: Has It Increased during the Coronavirus Disease Pandemic?

PURPOSE: The prevalence of disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI), previously known as functional gastrointestinal disorders, has increased among children and adolescents, impacting their quality of life. Lifestyle changes during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, such as decreased physical activity and altered dietary habits, may have contributed to this increase rise. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of DGBIs among Indonesian adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic using the Rome IV diagnostic criteria.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from March 2022 to April 2023 involving 5,247 adolescents (aged 13-18 years) from nine provinces in Indonesia (Riau, Riau Islands, Central Java, East Java, Bali, South Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, East Nusa Tenggara, and Papua). Data were collected via online and offline versions of the Rome IV questionnaire and analyzed descriptively to determine DGBI prevalence rates by age, sex, and region.

RESULTS

The prevalence of DGBIs was greater in females than males and among adolescents living in urban areas. We found that 28.4% of adolescents were diagnosed with at least one DGBI, with functional constipation being the most prevalent (21.8%), followed by functional dyspepsia (4.5%). Additionally, 13.5% of respondents experienced two overlapping DGBIs, and 1.3% suffered from three overlapping DGBIs simultaneously. The prevalence rate of DGBI varied significantly across the participating provinces.

CONCLUSION

DGBIs are highly prevalent among Indonesian adolescents after the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings can guide public health strategies to address adolescent gastrointestinal health in Indonesia and other regions.