Prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms is higher close to the sea: evidence from coastal Bangladesh

BackgroundSea level rise, heavy rainfall, flooding, and temperature changes due to climate change contribute to the spread of enteric infections, disrupting normal intestinal functions and leading to gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea etc. Coastal regions of Bangladesh are projected to be highly vulnerable to diarrheal diseases and cholera outbreaks by 2050. However, there is limited research on how coastal proximity affects GI health. Thus, we aimed to examine the association between GI symptoms and geographic distance from the sea in a coastal area of Bangladesh. Materials and methodsThis study was conducted in the Chakaria Health and Demographic Surveillance System area of icddr,b which is running since 1999. A total of 61,295 household members were interviewed between 2012 and 2016. GI symptoms were chosen as the primary outcome measure of this study. We employed chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis model. ResultOverall, 7% reported experiencing one or more GI symptoms in the previous two weeks. Diarrhea was the most prevalent symptom (35%), followed by heartburn (22%) and abdominal pain (18%). Prevalence was significantly higher among females (8%, p<0.05), older adults (13%, p<0.05), and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds (8%, p<0.05). Seasonal variation was observed, with the highest prevalence in summer (9%, p<0.05) and the lowest in winter (5%, p<0.05). Additionally, participants living within 15 kilometers (aOR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.24-1.46) and 15-20 kilometers (aOR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.10-1.38) of the sea had a higher risk of GI symptoms compared to those residing more than 20 kilometers away, after adjusting for other covariates. ConclusionOur finding demonstrates that individuals residing near the coast have a higher prevalence of GI symptoms. This evidence suggests the need for targeted public health strategies to improve GI health in climate vulnerable coastal populations. Also, further research is needed to determine the causal effect as well as the underlying biological mechanisms of GI symptoms in these population.