[Gender Difference in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders].

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Psychiatry
• Genetics

Background:

• Functional gastrointestinal diseases (FGIDs) are strongly linked to reduced quality of life, particularly mental health and sleep, more so than organic conditions.
• Pathophysiology of FGIDs involves genetic, microbiological, molecular, and social environmental factors, with mental health issues like depression and anxiety being prominent.
• FGIDs exhibit higher prevalence in women, highlighting the importance of gender as a critical factor in disease onset and progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the significant role of mental health factors in the development of FGIDs.
• To highlight the gender disparity in FGID prevalence and its influence on disease onset.
• To advocate for gender-specific research in therapeutic drug development for FGIDs.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on FGID pathophysiology and contributing factors.
• Analysis of the impact of mental health, sleep quality, and social environment on FGIDs.
• Examination of gender-specific prevalence and treatment response in FGID patients.

Main Results:

• Mental health factors, including depression and anxiety, are major contributors to FGID development.
• Women exhibit a higher prevalence of most FGIDs, indicating a significant gender influence.
• Differences in treatment response based on gender necessitate further investigation.

Conclusions:

• Mental health and gender are critical determinants in the development and presentation of FGIDs.
• Gender-specific analysis is essential for understanding FGID onset and tailoring treatments.
• Future research should focus on developing gender-informed therapies to improve FGID management and patient quality of life.