Burden of Irritable Bowel Syndrome on Quality of Life Among Saudi Adults

Abstract

Background: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder. The consequences of IBS extend beyond physical discomfort, as the condition severely impacts patients' quality of life. This study assessed the impact of IBS on behavioural, emotional, and social dimensions of quality of life among Saudi adults.
Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among the Saudi population. Data were collected from the participants via online questionnaires. All participants were asked to complete self-administered questionnaires. Participants completed the validated IBS-36 questionnaire and demographic measures. Descriptive and inferential analyses (Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis tests) were used to evaluate associations between quality-of-life domains and sociodemographic variables.
Results: A total of 317 respondents were included (73.2% female, 26.8% male; mean age 24 years). Emotional distress was pronounced, with 53.3% fearing symptom worsening and 50.8% reporting frequent tearfulness. Behavioural adjustments were common: 43.8% avoided favourite foods and 42.3% left social settings suddenly due to symptoms. Social and occupational functioning were also affected, with 40.4% reporting work interference and 30% difficulty enjoying leisure time. Female patients reported significantly greater emotional symptoms and bowel severity than males (p≤0.003). Married individuals experienced greater disruption in daily activities compared to singles (p≤0.001).
Conclusion: These findings underscore the pervasive impact of IBS on quality of life and emphasize the need for comprehensive management strategies for IBS patients in Saudi Arabia. Future research exploring the role of dietary and lifestyle modifications could provide further insights into effective management strategies.