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 Up to 20% of people have symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, although less than half of them see a doctor for their symptoms.2
IBS is twice as common in women as in men. Based on studies 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.
IBS is less likely to develop for the first time in people over age 50.
| Author: | Carrie Henley Robin Parks, MS | Last Updated: August 22, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology | |
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