Global Prevalence of Functional Constipation Across All Age Groups According to Rome II-IV Criteria, 1999-2025: A...

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Previous global estimates for functional constipation (FC) were limited to specific age groups (adults in 2020, children in 2017).
• A comprehensive, up-to-date global prevalence estimate for FC across all age demographics was lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated, standardized global prevalence estimate of functional constipation (FC).
• To analyze FC prevalence across diverse age groups using the Rome criteria.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library up to March 28, 2025.
• Inclusion of population-based observational studies (cross-sectional, prospective) reporting FC prevalence using Rome II, III, or IV criteria.
• Pooled prevalence calculation with subgroup analyses by Rome version, diagnostic method, region, age, sex, and behavioral factors.

Main Results:

• 128 studies from 44 countries with 459,061 participants were included.
• The global pooled prevalence of FC was 12.14%, with higher rates in females (14.60%) and the older population (19.89%).
• Prevalence varied by Rome criteria version, being highest with Rome II (12.68%) and lowest with Rome IV (10.34%).

Conclusions:

• Functional constipation is a highly prevalent global health issue with significant variations.
• Age, sex, diagnostic criteria, and geographic location influence FC prevalence.
• Standardized, population-based assessments using Rome criteria are crucial for effective clinical practice and public health interventions.