Zinc Deficiency Among Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively evaluate the prevalence of zinc deficiency in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online), Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library from inception to November 2025. Studies reporting zinc deficiency prevalence in IBD patients using validated biomarkers were included. Two independent reviewers performed study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model, with subgroup analyses conducted by IBD subtype. Seven studies comprising 2,403 IBD patients were included. The pooled prevalence of zinc deficiency was 35% (95% CI: 19-52%), with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 98.5%). Subgroup analysis revealed a higher prevalence in Crohn's disease patients (40%, 95% CI: 21-59%) compared to ulcerative colitis patients (33%, 95% CI: 18-51%). These findings underscore the significant burden of zinc deficiency in IBD populations and highlight the need for routine nutritional screening, particularly in Crohn's disease patients. Clinicians should consider zinc assessment as part of comprehensive IBD management, with targeted supplementation for deficient patients to potentially improve clinical outcomes and quality of life.