Prevalence and risk factors for irritable bowel syndrome among high school female students in northern borders region, Saudi Arabia

Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the physicians' most common conditions and accounts for approximately 12% of primary healthcare units' visits. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of irritable bowel syndrome among high school female students in the Northern borders region, KSA. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out during the second academic semester, April 2019 to December 2019. The investigator used a self-administered questionnaire that employed Rome 4 criteria and previously tested for validity and reliability. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 24 using Chi-square test and Fisher exact tests for significance. Results: The overall prevalence of IBS among the studied group is 54.8%. School grade, marital status, Family income, Family number, Parents status (p<0.001) were significantly related to IBS. Lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity and poor consumption of fruits and vegetables were significantly associated with irritable bowel syndrome among adolescents. Conclusion: IBS is a prevalent condition that necessitates medical care. Family physicians need screening for IBS in a different setting. Raising awareness on healthy lifestyles among adolescents is highly recommended to combat IBS and other lifestyle diseases.