July 30, 2025
Study confirms post-pandemic surge in gut-brain disorders
Individuals with long COVID face significantly higher rates of gut-brain interaction disorders, alongside worse mental health and quality of life.


A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology confirms a significant post-pandemic rise in disorders of gut-brain interaction, including IBS and functional dyspepsia.

Building on prior research, investigators used Rome Foundation diagnostic tools to analyze nationally representative samples from both 2017 and 2023, offering the first direct, population-level comparison of the prevalence of disorders of gut-brain interaction before and after the coronavirus pandemic.

Key findings:

• Overall, disorders of gut-brain interaction increased from 38.3% to 42.6%.
• IBS rates rose by 28%, from 4.7% to 6%.
• Functional dyspepsia saw a nearly 44% increase, from 8.3% to 11.9%.
• Individuals with long COVID were significantly more likely to experience disorders of gut-brain interaction and reported worse anxiety, depression, and quality of life.

The study adds compelling evidence to the growing recognition of COVID-19’s long-term impact on GI and mental health. It also strengthens calls for updated care models and further research into the gut-brain axis in the post-COVID era.