2024 | Caroline Rometsch, Giovanni Mansueto, Frederic Maas Genannt Bermpohl, Alexandra Martin, Fiammetta Cosci
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the point prevalence of functional disorders (FD) in adult general populations across Europe. The study searched PubMed and Web of Science from inception to June 2022, including 136 studies with 199 point prevalence estimates for 8 FD diagnoses. The overall point prevalence of FD was 8.78% (95% CI 7.61-10.10%), with significant heterogeneity (I²=99.9%). Specific diagnoses showed varying prevalence rates, with chronic pain (CP) at 20.27%, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) at 9.08%, and chronic widespread pain (CWP) at 8.45%. Norway had the highest prevalence (17.68%), while Denmark had the lowest (3.68%). The majority of studies were conducted in Northern Europe, Spain, and Italy. The study highlights the need for standardized diagnostic criteria and improved care pathways for FD patients.This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the point prevalence of functional disorders (FD) in adult general populations across Europe. The study searched PubMed and Web of Science from inception to June 2022, including 136 studies with 199 point prevalence estimates for 8 FD diagnoses. The overall point prevalence of FD was 8.78% (95% CI 7.61-10.10%), with significant heterogeneity (I²=99.9%). Specific diagnoses showed varying prevalence rates, with chronic pain (CP) at 20.27%, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) at 9.08%, and chronic widespread pain (CWP) at 8.45%. Norway had the highest prevalence (17.68%), while Denmark had the lowest (3.68%). The majority of studies were conducted in Northern Europe, Spain, and Italy. The study highlights the need for standardized diagnostic criteria and improved care pathways for FD patients.