Prevalence Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Research Articles

Prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia after acute gastroenteritis: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Disorders of gut-brain interaction may arise after acute gastroenteritis. Data on the influence of pathogen type on the risk of postinfection IBS (PI-IBS), as on postinfection functional dyspepsia (PI-FD), are limited. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine prevalence of PI-IBS or PI-FD after acute gastroenteritis. We included observational studies recruiting ≥50 adults and reporting prevalence of IBS or FD after acute gastroenteritis with ≥3-month follow-up. A random effects model was used to estimate prevalence and ORs with 95% CIs. In total, 47 studies (28 170 subjects) were eligible. Overall prevalence of PI-IBS and PI-FD were 14.5% and 12.7%, respectively. IBS persisted in 39.8% of subjects in the long-term (>5 years follow-up) after diagnosis. Individuals experiencing acute gastroenteritis had a significantly higher odds of IBS (OR 4.3) and FD (OR 3.0) than non-exposed controls. PI-IBS was most associated with parasites (prevalence 30.1%), but in only two studies, followed by bacteria (18.3%) and viruses (10.7%). In available studies, Campylobacter was associated with the highest PI-IBS prevalence (20.7%) whereas Proteobacteria and SARS-CoV-2 yielded the highest odds for PI-IBS (both OR 5.4). Prevalence of PI-FD was 10.0% for SARS-CoV-2 and 13.6% for bacteria (Enterobacteriaceae 19.4%). In a large systematic review and meta-analysis, 14.5% of individuals experiencing acute gastroenteritis developed PI-IBS and 12.7% PI-FD, with greater than fourfold increased odds for IBS and threefold for FD. Proinflammatory microbes, including Proteobacteria and subcategories, and SARS-CoV-2, may be associated with the development of PI-IBS and PI-FD.

Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Ankylosing Spondylitis and Its Association with Clinical and Demographic Findings and Gut Pathology

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is common in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and may be associated with the disease. We aimed to determine the prevalence of IBS in AS patients and its association with clinical and demographic patient characteristics and with macroscopic and microscopic gut lesions. Sixty consecutive AS patients were included in this study. Disease activity was assessed with the BASDAI (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index) and functional status with the BASFI (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index). The ROME III criteria were used to diagnose IBS. Macroscopic lesions were graded during colonoscopies. Biopsy specimens were taken from the terminal ileum, colon (ascending, transverse and descending) and rectum. Histological samples were scored with Cuvelier grading. The prevalence of IBS was 23.3% (14/60). The mean age of 14 IBS subjects (10 male) was 32 ± 8.50., with a higher BASDAI (p = 0.046). Macroscopic lesions were more frequent in IBS cases in the terminal ileum (46.2% vs. 34.9%), ascending colon (21.4% vs. 2.2%) and rectum (21.4% vs. 17.4%), with Grade 2 significantly more prevalent in the ascending colon (p = 0.03). Microscopic lesions did not differ among the IBS-present and -absent groups. In conclusion, the prevalence of IBS was high in AS patients and associated with higher disease activity. Grade 2 macroscopic lesions were more frequent in the ascending colon.

Irritable bowel syndrome following infectious COVID-19: East Java, Indonesia, 2023

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder that causes chronic abdominal pain without a known cause. It is a common, chronic gastrointestinal (GI) motility disorder with bothersome symptoms that often lower quality of life and activity. In addition, Patients and healthcare facilities also face significant financial costs. COVID-19 directly damages the digestive system and alters the complex interaction of physical, mental, and social factors that cause digestive problems. SARS-CoV-2 survivors in personal isolation will be examined for IBS prevalence. The dates of this descriptive cross-sectional study are January through April 2023. Rome IV criteria and an online questionnaire were used to confirm the diagnosis of IBS. The principal location where polls have been sent is East Java, Indonesia. The 96 COVID-19 survivors aged 18–60 of both genders was included during self-quarantine. There were 59 females (61.46%) and 37 males (38.54%). The prevalence of IBS was discovered to be 19 (19.79%) among a total of 96 patients. This could be because self-quarantined people have more stable living conditions than hospitalized people. Based on these findings, it is suggested that future research consider gender as the primary proxy for identifying irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Impact of Depression on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)-Associated Gastrointestinal Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study in Makkah City, Saudi Arabia.

Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal chronic disorder associated with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. One of the factors that could affect the pathogenesis of IBS is depression, a common psychological disorder that causes social and physical disability and affects productivity. A number of Saudi teachers were found to have depression, which was linked with multiple risk factors including chronic illnesses. However, there is limited data that exhibits the association between IBS and depression, specifically. Therefore, our study aims to determine the impact of depression on IBS-associated gastrointestinal symptoms in Makkah City schools, Saudi Arabia. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we used two validated scales and translated them into Arabic and then we distributed them to our targeted population. Our sample size was determined to be 383 but we succeeded in recruiting 477 participants in our study. Data were statistically analyzed using the statistical software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 23.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Results Generally, participants who demonstrated mild levels of Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) depression scale corresponded significantly with minimal/mild and moderate levels of Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale-IBS (GSRS-IBS) scores (n = 85 and 76, respectively; p ˂ 0.001), while participants who scored moderately on the PHQ-9 depression scale corresponded significantly with a severe level of GSRS-IBS scores (n = 29; p ˂ 0.001). Conclusion Our study found a significant association between different levels of depression and IBS among participants with a positive history of IBS. Further studies about the prevalence of IBS, depression, and the nature of their relationship are strongly recommended, in addition to the necessity of a suicide risk assessment for those with severe depression.

Symptoms of functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome among medical students in Slovakia and their relation to diet and exercise.

There is a substantial lack of data regarding the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD) in the region of Central/Eastern Europe. It is a well-described and known fact that environmental, ethnic, dietary, and cultural factors can influence the reporting of symptoms. Therefore, we aim to provide the first data documenting the prevalence of specific disorders of gut-brain interaction in Slovakia. This is a multicenter-based study. The study population consists of medical students from three medical faculties in Slovakia, mainly with Slovakian and Scandinavian permanent residency. Data collection was performed by means of anonymous questionnaires consisting of several demographic questions. Two forms of questionnaires were used. One was in paper form, and the second was distributed via email. Altogether, 1061 students participated in this study. Symptoms of IBS were presented in 7.3% of students, and FD in 13%. In the Slovakian group, these were FD 12%, and IBS 7%. The subgroup from Scandinavia shows a prevalence of IBS of 11.7% and FD of 14.0%. A lack of exercise and a vegan diet are related to a higher presence of FD. The results of this multicentre study represent the first published data for the presence of symptoms of IBS and FD in Slovakia. Our data also show a significantly higher prevalence of IBS in students from Scandinavia compared with those from Central/Eastern Europe. A higher frequency of physical exercise is associated with a lower presence of symptoms of FD. On the other hand, the symptoms of FD were mostly prevalent in the group adhering to a vegan and vegetarian type diet.

Factors Associated With the Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: The Miyagi Part of the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Community-based Cohort Study.

The objective of this research is to examine factors related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) prevalence in a large population-based study. A cross-sectional study was conducted with participants in the Miyagi part of the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Community-Based cohort study who completed the Rome II Modular Questionnaire. Multivariate odds ratios (ORs) for the presence of IBS and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the reference group were calculated for each factor. Additionally, a stratified analysis was performed by sex and age group (20-49 years, 50-64 years, and ≥ 65 years). Among 16 252 participants, 3025 (18.6%) had IBS, comprising 750 men (15.5%) and 2275 women (19.9%). Multivariate ORs for the presence of IBS decreased significantly with each year of age (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.98-0.99). Moreover, compared with the reference group, ORs for the presence of IBS were significantly higher in individuals whose home was partially damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake, those with < 16 years of education, those who spent less time walking, those with high perceived stress (1.77, 1.57-2.01), those with high psychological distress (1.58, 1.36-1.82), and those with high symptoms of depression (1.76, 1.60-1.94). In stratified analyses, a significant relationship was found between psychological factors and IBS prevalence in all sex and age groups. This large cross-sectional population-based cohort study identified several factors associated with IBS prevalence. Psychological factors were significantly associated with IBS prevalence across all age groups and sexes.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in medical students at a Peruvian university: a cross-sectional study.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome has emerged as a significant public health challenge, particularly relevant in medical students due to the high demands of their studies, academic stress, and susceptibility to eating disorders. Nevertheless, conclusive evidence regarding the factors associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome in the Latin American student population remains limited. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Human Medicine students at a university in northern Peru. A cross-sectional analytical study conducted in Lambayeque, northern Peru. With 403 Human Medicine students (66.5% female, 33.5% male). A simple random probabilistic sampling type was used, based on a list of students enrolled. A multivariate analysis was conducted to determine the factors associated using simple and multiple regression models. Generalized Linear Models were applied, using the Poisson distribution family, robust variance, and the academic year as a cluster. The prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome was 16.9% (95% CI: 13.37-20.86). The median age was 21 years, with 66.5% being female. In the multiple regression analysis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome was associated with a higher prevalence of depression (PR: 3.63; 95% CI: 1.26-10.49) and eating disorders (PR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.01-2.43). For each additional year of age, the prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome decreased by 9% (PR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.83-0.99). This study reveals that approximately two out of every 10 students exhibit symptoms related to IBS, underscoring its significance in the Human Medicine student population. Furthermore, depression and eating disorders were identified as significant factors associated with IBS in students. Consequently, it is essential to focus efforts on early identification and the implementation of preventive measures to mitigate the development of this pathology, given its substantial prevalence in this context of Human Medicine students.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Among General Population: A Cross-Sectional Study in Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia.

Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects 10-20% of the global population, primarily manifesting as functional issues leading to abdominal discomfort. Key contributors like genetics, psychological factors, weakened immunity, and environmental pollutants play significant roles. Regional variations exist, with prevalence rates ranging from 7-10% in certain areas like South Asia and the Middle East to as high as 20% in many Western countries. Objective The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and its related risk factors among the general populace of the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia, aiming to offer valuable insights for healthcare planning and intervention strategies. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, utilizing a validated self-administered questionnaire among residents of the Qassim region aged over 18 years. The questionnaire included demographic information about the participants and the validated Rome IV questionnaire for IBS in adults. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Qassim Research Ethics Committee, and data analysis was conducted using R script language version 4.3.3. A significance level of p < 0.05 was employed to interpret the results. Results Overall, significant associations were observed between IBS diagnosis and food allergy (AOR = 2.34, 99% CI: 1.27-4.29), family history of IBS (Adjusted Odd Ratio (AOR) = 7.03, 99% CI: 3.51-15.74), and abdominal pain lasting more than six months (AOR = 2.54, 99% CI: 1.49-4.33). Conclusion This study highlights a high IBS prevalence (21.4%) in Saudi Arabia's Qassim region. While no overall soda-IBS link was found, males showed a protective effect. Significant associations were noted between food allergy, family history, and abdominal pain with IBS diagnosis, especially among females. Further research on gender disparities and familial and abdominal pain roles in IBS management is warranted.

Anxiety-Related Factors Associated With Symptom Severity in Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

This study in Jazan, Saudi Arabia aims to identify anxiety-related factors associated with symptom severity in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a common gastrointestinal disorder causing abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. The prevalence of IBS in Saudi Arabia is estimated to be 10%-20% among the general population. Therefore, the present study aimed todetermine anxiety-related factors associated with symptom severity in irritable bowel syndrome in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Understanding these factors will provide insights into the overall impact of IBS on patients' quality of life. The study utilized a cross-sectional, descriptive observational design to examine the general population in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The sample size of 385 individuals was calculated based on the population size and desired error margin. A convenience sampling technique was employed to select participants who met the inclusion criteria. A validated anonymous self-administered electronic survey was distributed through social media channels. The survey consisted of four sections gathering demographic information, personal risk factors, IBS types with anxiety and risk factors, and a questionnaire to determine the level of anxiety. A pilot study was conducted to improve the survey's clarity. Ethical considerations were followed, and data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Descriptive statistics and significance tests were performed. A study with 637 participants found a 31.08% prevalence of IBS, which was more common in females. Participants with IBS had a higher rate of chronic disease. There were no significant differences in demographic factors between IBS and non-IBS participants. The duration of IBS diagnosis varied, with the majority of IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) sufferers being diagnosed five years prior. Symptom severity differed among IBS types, with those with an unspecified type reporting the highest percentage of severe symptoms. IBS types were also correlated with anxiety levels, with IBS-D sufferers reporting moderate anxiety and those with an unspecified type reporting severe anxiety. A study with 637 participants found the prevalence of IBS to be 31.08%, with higher rates in females. IBS was associated with chronic diseases and higher anxiety levels. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive management of IBS, including psychological interventions and dietary modifications, to improve patients' overall health and quality of life. Further research on genetic and modifiable risk factors is needed.

Food Intolerances, Food Allergies and IBS: Lights and Shadows.

This narrative review delves into the intricate relationship between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and food intolerances. IBS, a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder, is characterized by symptoms like abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. The prevalence of IBS has increased globally, especially among young adults. Food and dietary habits play a crucial role in IBS management. About 85-90% of IBS patients report symptom exacerbation linked to specific food consumption, highlighting the strong connection between food intolerances and IBS. Food intolerances often exhibit a dose-dependent pattern, posing a challenge in identifying trigger foods. This issue is further complicated by the complex nature of gastrointestinal physiology and varying food compositions. This review discusses various dietary patterns and their impact on IBS, including the low-FODMAP diet, gluten-free diet, and Mediterranean diet. It highlights the importance of a personalized approach in dietary management, considering individual symptom variability and dietary history. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the need for accurate diagnosis and holistic management of IBS, considering the complex interplay between dietary factors and gastrointestinal pathophysiology. It underlines the importance of patient education and adherence to treatment plans, acknowledging the challenges posed by the variability in dietary triggers and the psychological impact of dietary restrictions.

Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Among Students of Majmmah University, Saudi Arabia: Comparison Between Medical and Non-Medical Students

Background and Aims: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that manifests as a chronic episode of abdominal pain accompanied by altered bowel habits. It is one of the most frequent illnesses of GIT. Medical students are more susceptible to IBS. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of IBS among medical and non-medical students at Majmaah University, Saudi Arabia, to assess the association between IBS and lifestyle, and to determine the effect of IBS on the academic performance of the students. Methods: A cross-sectional study to study the prevalence of IBS was conducted. Two hundred and seventy-nine students from two medical colleges and two non-medical colleges were enrolled in the study. Data were obtained through an online questionnaire. Rome IV criteria and perceived stress scale were applied to diagnose IBS, stress, and anxiety. Results: The prevalence of IBS was found to be 17.2%. The prevalence of IBS among medical and nonmedical students was 34.4% and 13% respectively. Time to reach the university, Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA), physical exercise, stress, and anxiety were found to be significantly associated with IBS. Conclusions: Irritable Bowel Syndrome is more prevalent among students of Majmaah University. IBS is more prevalent among medical students and students in the College of Medicine have the highest prevalence of IBS. IBS is associated with the time to reach the university, gender, CGPA, exercise, stress, and anxiety.

Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms Among Medical Students at University of Benghazi

Aim: To determine the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome among medical students at the University of Benghazi using Rome IV criteria, and to compare the results between students based on their gender and academic year, whether basic (from the first to the third year) or clinical (fourth and fifth years).&#x0D; Material and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was carried out among medical students at the University of Benghazi using Rome IV criteria. Data was collected from June 10th, 2022, to August 31st, 2022, and a semi-structured questionnaire was used. The sample included students from the first year to the fifth year of medicine.&#x0D; Results: This study included data from 381 medical students, whose ages ranged from 19 to 39. The prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome was found to be 16.01%. Our study found no association between IBS symptoms and gender (p = 0.79). Additionally, no association was observed between IBS symptoms and academic year (p = 0.076), coffee consumption (p = 0.4), as well as smoking (p = 0.9).&#x0D; Conclusion: The prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome was more observed in females in this study; however, we did not find a significant statistical difference between males and females in the prevalence of IBS. Additionally, there was no significant statistical difference in the prevalence of IBS among medical students whether they were in their basic years or clinical years. Furthermore, in our study, IBS was related neither to coffee nor to cigarette smoking.

Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review.

The prevalence and associated risk factors of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have been a significant area of focus in several studies conducted in Saudi Arabia. These studies have looked at varied populations, including school teachers, university students, and the general populace. The reported prevalence rates for IBS vary substantially across studies, ranging from 7.9% to an astounding 49.3%. The average prevalence noted across these studies is about 24%. The aim of this review is to collate, compare, and analyze data from these studies, hoping to shed light on the key risk factors and demographic trends associated with IBS in Saudi Arabia. This review encompasses data from 20 studies, aggregating information from 17,018 participants. The research methodologies adopted by each of these studies have been analyzed, especially focusing on their sample sizes, which vary significantly. Furthermore, the review incorporates details on the socio-demographic attributes of the participants, including age specifics, gender representation, and geographical distribution within Saudi Arabia. The results demonstrate a wide variability in IBS prevalence among different groups. The overall prevalence of IBS in Saudi Arabia based on the provided data is approximately 24%. Gender-based breakdown in some studies indicated varying prevalence among males and females, which indicated that females are more prone to the disease. The same for certain age groups, specifically between 51 and 60 years, which showed slightly higher rates. Factors such as educational discipline, living conditions, mental health, dietary habits, family history of IBS, and certain comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus were found to influence the occurrence of IBS in different cohorts. Moreover, lifestyle factors such as low water intake, lack of dietary fiber, stress, and even caffeine intake were associated with IBS. Socioeconomic aspects, including family income levels and academic performance, were also hinted to have a potential link with IBS prevalence.In light of the presented data, it is evident that IBS prevalence in Saudi Arabia is influenced by a multitude of factors, ranging from genetic and dietary to psychological and socioeconomic. The substantial variations in prevalence across different cohorts suggest the need for a more nuanced understanding of this condition, specifically tailored to the unique demographics and cultural contexts of Saudi Arabia. Early diagnosis and tailored interventions, considering these multifaceted determinants, are crucial for the effective management of IBS in the region.

The prevalence and risk factors of irritable bowel syndrome (PRIBS study) among adults in low- and middle-income countries: A multicenter cross-sectional study.

Because of the plenty and abundance of risk factors and the expected increase in the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in the world in general and in low- and middle-income countries in particular, this international cross-sectional study was conducted in 15 low- and middle-income countries according to our previous protocol, NCT05340400. Participants were recruited in the period from April 22, 2022 to June 14, 2022. The diagnosis of IBS was according to ROME IV. We determined the physical activity, daily stress, and fatigue of the participants. A large number of collaborators were chosen from different regions and institutions within each country to achieve diversity within the sample and reduce the probability of bias. The prevalence of IBS appears to be higher in low- and middle-income countries (mean = 25.2%, range [6.2%-44.2%]) than in high-income countries, with a higher prevalence among Africans than Caucasians and Asians. The prevalence of IBS increased in the fourth decade by 32.1% and in the fifth decade by 31.1% (p-value < 0.001). In addition to the previously known risk factors for IBS such as female sex, smoking, psychological stress, and chronic fatigue, other risk factors were discovered such as chronic diseases, including high blood pressure and diabetes, allergies to some substances, previous infection with COVID-19, and the participant having a first-degree relative with a patient. There are also some other modifiable risk factors, such as an abnormal body mass index (whether high or low), smoking, a protein- or fat-rich diet, drinking caffeine-containing beverages, and poor physical activity. Highlighting the prevalence and increasing risk factors of IBS in developing countries should draw the attention of those responsible for health care in these countries and reduce the risk factors.

Menstrual Status Is Associated with the Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in a Japanese Young Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: There is evidence regarding the association between dysmenorrhea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), although it is lacking in the Asian population. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the association between menstrual status and IBS in a young Japanese. Methods: Overall, 4,693 female college students were included in the analysis of this study. Information regarding lifestyle habits, menstrual status (irregularity, pain severity, and medication), and IBS (Rome III criteria) was obtained using a self-reported questionnaire. Age, body mass index, exercise habits, smoking, drinking habits, and anemia were analyzed as potential confounders. Results: The prevalence of IBS was 6.1%. Moderate {adjusted odds ratio (OR): 1.89 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.27–2.91)} and heavy (adjusted OR: 2.14 [95% CI: 1.42–3.45]) menstrual pain were independently positively associated with IBS (p for trend = 0.001). Using medication sometimes (adjusted OR: 1.41 [95% CI: 1.09–1.84]) and often (adjusted OR: 1.60 [95% CI: 1.13–2.24]) was independently positively associated with IBS. There was no association between menstrual cycle and IBS. In subjects without functional dyspepsia, irregular menstrual cycle was independently positively associated with IBS. Conclusion: In the young Japanese population, menstrual pain and medications for menstrual pain may have a significant positive association with IBS.

The Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Its Co-existence With Migraine in Medical and Non-medical Students at Al-Baha University, Saudi Arabia.

It was hypothesized that the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and migraine and their co-existence are higher among medical students. In this study, we aim to establish the prevalence of IBS and migraine in the medical and non-medical students at Al-Baha University, Saudi Arabia, and to observe the association and relationship between IBS and migraine using the Rome IV diagnostic criteria for IBS and the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD)-3 criteria for migraine. This cross-sectional study was done on the Saudi Arabian campus of Al-Baha University between July 2022 and July 2023. Al-Baha city-dwelling male and female college students aged 18 to 29 comprised the study population. A self-administered electronic questionnaire was sent online to determine the prevalence of IBSand migraine, in addition to associated risk factors. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: demographic and lifestyle data, the Rome IV criteria for diagnosing and subclassifying IBS, and the ICHD-3 criteria for diagnosing migraine. The study was conducted among 452 participants with a mean age of 21.64 years. The majority of participants were not from medical schools. The majority of medical and non-medical participants were male, at 66.6% and 63.1%, respectively. In our study, 36.9% of the individuals reported having a first-degree relative diagnosed with IBS, whereas 2.7% reported having IBS themselves. Regarding migraine, 17.9% of respondents claimed to have a first-degree relative with migraine, while 6.9% of respondents themselves reported experiencing migraine. Regarding IBS prevalence, there was no significant difference between participants from non-MBBS colleges and MBBS colleges. Similarly, there was no significant difference in migraine prevalence between these two groups (92.0% vs. 95.4%, p=0.185). The current study contributes significantly to our understanding of the prevalence of IBS and migraines among medical students, as well as these individuals' demographic characteristics, familial histories, and aggravating variables.

Prevalence and Burden of Illness of Rome IV Irritable Bowel Syndrome in the United States: Results From a Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study

The estimated prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) using Rome IV criteria in the United States (US) ranges from 4.7% to 5.3%, although these estimates arise from studies with relatively small sample sizes. This study assessed the prevalence of IBS and its associated burden of illness using a nationally representative data set with nearly 89,000 people in the US. From May 3 to June 24, 2020, we performed an online survey described to participating adults aged ≥18 years old as a "national health survey." We recruited a representative sample of people in the US to complete the survey, which included the Rome IV IBS questionnaire, National Institutes of Health Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) gastrointestinal scales, and questions on health care-seeking behavior. Overall, 88,607 people completed the survey, of whom 5414 (6.1%) met Rome IV IBS criteria: mixed IBS (n= 1838 [33.9%]), constipation-predominant IBS (n= 1819 [33.6%]), diarrhea-predominant IBS (n= 1521 [28.1%]), and unsubtyped IBS (n= 236 [4.4%]). Women had higher odds for IBS compared with men, whereas racial/ethnic minorities had lower odds for IBS vs non-Hispanic Whites. Across the 3 main subtypes, 68.2% to 73.2% of people reported ever seeking care for their IBS symptoms, whereas 53.8% to 58.9% did so in the past 12 months. In this nationwide US survey, we found that Rome IV IBS is slightly more prevalent (6.1%) vs prior estimates (4.7%-5.3%). Additional research is needed to determine whether this higher prevalence is in part due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic during which this study was conducted.

The Relevance of Food Constituents to the Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Rome IV-Based Prevalence Study Among Medical Students.

Irritable bowel syndrome is prevalent in the general population. This study investigates the association between dietary intake and irritable bowel syndrome in medical college students at King Saud University besides its prevalence. This is an analytical cross-sectional study of 426 students (271 males and 155 females, age 21.21 ± 1.58 years) from 5 academic levels of King Saud University Medical College. A self-reported questionnaire for Rome IV criteria was completed by each participant. They also filled out a food frequency questionnaire to assess their nutritional intake. The overall prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome was 17.8% without correlation to age and academic year in Medical School. However, the prevalence was higher in females than in males (40/115 vs. 36/235, P = .001). The irritable bowel syndrome group consumed significantly more energy, carbohydrates, and saturated fatty acids, while the non-irritable bowel syndrome group consumed significantly more fibers and niacin (P < .001 and P = .005, respectively). About 17.8% of medical students had irritable bowel syndrome with a greater prevalence in females. The irritable bowel syndrome group consumed significantly more energy, carbohydrates, and saturated fatty acids, while the non-irritable bowel syndrome group consumed significantly more fibers and niacin. Our results did not show any significant association between irritable bowel syndrome and fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide, and polyol intake. Overall, both groups were not adhering to the Saudi dietary recommended intake.

The Burden of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Medical and Nurse Italian University Student Population: The VANVITELLI-IBS Survey.

The increased prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) among medical and nursing students is a global challenge. Unfortunately, data on the Italian medical and nurse student population are scarce. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the prevalence of IBS in this setting and to evaluate the demographic, university, Mediterranean diet adherence, and anxiety factors associated with its increased presence. To assess the prevalence of IBS, anxiety levels, and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in medical and nursing university students. An anonymous online questionnaire was sent to participants. Several demographic and educational variables were assayed, and the presence of symptoms associated with the definition of IBS (according to Rome IV criteria). In addition, anxiety levels and adherence to the Mediterranean diet were also assessed. Of 161 students, 21.11% met the Rome IV criteria for IBS. Some subgroups, the out-ofcourse students or no scholarship recipients, were found to have a higher percentage of IBS (p < 0.05). Being out-of-course was shown to be associated with an increased and unreported risk of presenting IBS (OR: 8.403, p < 0.001). Levels of anxiety and adherence to the Mediterranean diet were significantly worse in the IBS group (p < 0.01). Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with a reduced risk of presenting IBS in our setting (OR 0.258, p = 0.002). Our sample of Italian medical and nursing students recorded a non-negligible percentage of IBS. Therefore, screening and awareness campaigns could be suggested.

The Association Between a Mediterranean Diet and Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Low adherence to Mediterranean diet (MD) has been shown to be associated with a higher prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but its association with IBS symptoms is not established. We aim to assess the association between MD and IBS symptoms, identify components of MD associated with IBS symptoms, and determine if a symptom-modified MD is associated with changes in the gut microbiome. One hundred and six Rome+IBS and 108 health control participants completed diet history and gastrointestinal symptom questionnaires. Adherence to MD was measured using Alternate Mediterranean Diet and Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener. Sparse partial least squares analysis identified MD food items associated with IBS symptoms. Stool samples were collected for 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing and microbial composition analysis in IBS subjects. Alternate Mediterranean Diet and Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener scores were similar between IBS and health control subjects and did not correlate with Irritable Bowel Syndrome Severity Scoring System, abdominal pain, or bloating. Among IBS participants, a higher consumption of fruits, vegetables, sugar, and butter was associated with a greater severity of IBS symptoms. Multivariate analysis identified several MD foods to be associated with increased IBS symptoms. A higher adherence to symptom-modified MD was associated with a lower abundance of potentially harmful Faecalitalea, Streptococcus, and Intestinibacter, and higher abundance of potentially beneficial Holdemanella from the Firmicutes phylum. A standard MD was not associated with IBS symptom severity, although certain MD foods were associated with increased IBS symptoms. Our study suggests that standard MD may not be suitable for all patients with IBS and likely needs to be personalized in those with increased symptoms.