Meta-Analysis: Prevalence of Eating Disorders in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• The relationship between disordered eating and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains unclear, with ongoing debate about causality.
• Existing research lacks comprehensive estimates of eating disorder prevalence within the IBD population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct an updated systematic review and the first meta-analysis to determine the prevalence of eating disorders in individuals diagnosed with IBD.
• To identify factors influencing prevalence estimates, such as assessment methods and patient demographics.

Main Methods:

• Systematic search of major biomedical databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO) up to October 2025.
• Inclusion of original observational studies reporting eating disorder prevalence in IBD patients.
• Calculation of pooled prevalence using random-effects models, stratified by subgroup, and assessment of heterogeneity.

Main Results:

• Twenty-three studies were included, revealing significant variability in prevalence based on assessment tools.
• Self-report questionnaires indicated a pooled prevalence of 13.60%, while physician diagnoses showed 2.84%.
• The Nine-Item Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder Screen yielded the highest prevalence at 17.10%; no significant differences were found based on sex, IBD subtype, age, or disease activity.

Conclusions:

• Eating disorders, particularly avoidant/restrictive types, are prevalent in individuals with IBD.
• The findings underscore the necessity for enhanced screening protocols and heightened clinical awareness for disordered eating in the IBD patient cohort.