Prevalence and Risk Factors of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Among Adults in Al-Qunfudah Governorate, Saudi Arabia

Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder and is linked to numerous psychiatric abnormalities. Objectives In Al-Qunfudah governorate, this study was done to estimate the prevalence of IBS and its associated risk factors among adults. Material and methods The Rome IV criteria and GAD-7 (General Anxiety Disorder-7) were used in this community-based cross-sectional study. A total of 335 adults from the general population made up the sample, which was chosen using a convenience (non-probability) sampling technique. The required data were collected through the dissemination of the survey link online through different electronic platforms. Results The total prevalence of IBS was 30.4% (n = 102), with females having a greater prevalence (55.9%, n = 57 out of 102). GAD was found in 15.8% of the total participants (n = 53). Significant relationships were discovered between IBS and marital status, education, occupation, smoking status, IBS history, and anxiety levels (p-values were <0.001, 0.023, 0.006, 0.016, <0.001, and <0.001, respectively). According to regression analysis, being single, having a family history of IBS, and having a generalized anxiety disorder were all risk factors for IBS. Conclusion In this study, the prevalence of IBS among adults in Al-Qunfudah governorate, Saudi Arabia, was shown to be 30.4%. Further, approximately 16% of individuals had generalized anxiety disorder. Being unmarried, having a positive family history of IBS, and suffering from GAD were all risk factors for developing IBS. People need to be educated on the symptoms and consequences of IBS. We also propose that those suffering from IBS symptoms seek a second opinion from a doctor to manage this problem and its impact on their quality of life.