Epidemiology
Studies have reported that the prevalence of IBS varies by country and by age range examined. The bar graph at right shows the percentage of the population reporting symptoms of IBS in studies from various geographic regions (see table below for references).
The following table contains a list of studies performed in different countries that measured the prevalence of IBS and IBS-like symptoms:
| Percentage of population reporting symptoms of IBS in various studies from various geographic areas | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Country | Prevalence | Author/Year | Notes |
| Canada | 6% | Boivin, 2001 | |
| Japan | 10% | Quigley, 2006 | Study measured prevalence of GI abdominal pain/cramping |
| United Kingdom | 8.2%
10.5% |
Ehlin, 2003 Wilson, 2004 |
Prevalence increased substantially 1970–2004 |
| United States | 14.1% | Hungin, 2005 | Most undiagnosed |
| United States | 15% | Boivin, 2001 | Estimate |
| Pakistan | 14% | Jafri, 2007 | Much more common in 16–30 age range. Of IBS patients, 56% male, 44% female |
| Pakistan | 34% | Jafri, 2005 | College students |
| Mexico City | 35% | Schmulson, 2006 | n=324. Also measured functional diarrhea and functional vomiting. High rates attributed to "stress of living in a populated city." |
| Brazil | 43% | Quigley, 2006 | Study measured prevalence of GI abdominal pain/cramping |
| Mexico | 46% | Quigley, 2006 | Study measured prevalence of GI abdominal pain/cramping |
A study of United States residents returning from international travel found a high rate of IBS and persistent diarrhea that developed during travel and persisted upon return. The study examined 83 subjects in Utah, most of whom were returning missionaries. Of the 68 who completed the gastrointestinal questionnaire, 27 reported persistent diarrhea that developed while traveling, and 10 reported persistent IBS that developed while traveling.
Read more about this topic: Irritable Bowel Syndrome