IBS common features among Northern Saudi population according to Rome IV criteria

Background: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a global health disorder characterized heterogenic prevalence worldwide. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify the IBS common features among Northern Saudi population according to Rome IV criteria. Methodology: In this community based cross-sectional survey, data about IBS were obtained from 900 Saudi volunteers living in the city of Hail, Northern Saudi Arabia. A Purposeful questionnaire was designed and used for obtaining the necessary data. Each questionnaire was filled by a medical student during the interview. IBS was diagnosed based on Rome IV Criteria. Results: The most common IBS type was mixed followed by constipation and diarrheal, constituting 173/403 (43%), 125/403 (31%) and 105/403 (26%), respectively. The prevalence rates of mixed constipation and diarrheal IBS types among males were 43%, 31.6%, and 25.4%, respectively. The prevalence rates of mixed constipation and diarrheal IBS types among females were 43%, 30.6%, and 26.5%, respectively. Conclusion: The prevalence of rates of IBS using Rome IV, still within medium values among Northern Saudi population, though, there were higher prevalence rates of IBS symptoms. The most common IBS type was mixed followed by constipation and diarrheal types. All IBS related symptoms were more common among women compared to men.