The Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology study: Conception, implementation, results, and future potential

Ami D. Sperber

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    7 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    Background: Methodological problems have impeded successful epidemiological research into disorders of gut-brain interactions (DGBI), as previous studies were limited in terms of study population, diagnostic criteria, number of disorders assessed, data collection methods, and geographic area. Most prevalence estimates were based on pooling data from heterogeneous studies using inappropriate pooling methods, seriously limiting the relevance of the results. The Rome Foundatiion Global Epidemiology Study (RFGES) aimed to rectify these limitations using rigorous methodology to survey the prevalence of 22 DGBI in large population samples in 33 countries. Its aims were to conduct a comprehensive, multinational epidemiological study using rigorous research methodology, gain a better understanding of the burden of the DGBI, gain reliable regional estimates of DGBI prevalence, and advance our understanding of the pathophysiology of IBS. The study questionnaire consisted of the 89-item Rome IV Adult Diagnostic Questionnaire enabling the diagnosis of 22 DGBI, and an 80-item supplemental questionnaire that enabled analyses of the association of multiple factors with DGBI diagnoses. Purpose for review article: This review paper introduces a special issue on the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology study (RFGES) with a narrative description of its conception, development, and implementation, its outcomes to date, and its potential contribution to neurogastroenterology. It includes 15 papers that reflect the range of RFGES studies from single country papers to intra-regional studies, to inter-regional studies, and one global study.

    Original languageEnglish
    Article numbere14567
    JournalNeurogastroenterology and Motility
    Volume35
    Issue number6
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 1 Jun 2023

    Keywords

    • Rome Foundation
    • diagnostic criteria
    • disorders of gut-brain interaction
    • epidemiology
    • research

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Physiology
    • Endocrine and Autonomic Systems
    • Gastroenterology

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