WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
Who is affected by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common intestinal disorders, affecting about 10% to 15% of people in North America.1 But only about 30% of the people who have IBS will see a doctor for their symptoms.2
IBS is twice as common in women as in men.1 In the United States, it is estimated to occur in 14% to 24% of women and 5% to 19% of men.3 The condition is also common in India, Japan, and China.
References
Citations
American College of Gastroenterology Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders Task Force (2002). Evidence-based position statement on the management of irritable bowel syndrome in North America. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 97(11, Suppl): S1–S26.
Olden KW (2002). Diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterology, 122(6): 1701–1714.
Spanier JA, et al. (2003). A systematic review of alternative therapies in the irritable bowel syndrome. Archives of Internal Medicine, 163(3): 265–274.
Last Updated:
May 23, 2008- Author:
- Monica Rhodes
- Medical Review:
- Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
