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What Increases Your Risk
It is estimated that between 10% and 15% of people in North America have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).3 Only about 30% of people with IBS will consult a doctor about their symptoms.4
IBS tends to be more common in:
- People in their late 20s.
- Women. IBS is two times more common in women than in men.3
- People who have panic disorder or other psychological conditions.
- People who have a family history of IBS.
- People who have a history of physical or sexual abuse or other psychological trauma. Several studies have found a link between a past history of abuse and gastrointestinal disorders.5
- People with other conditions such as depression, migraine headaches, and fibromyalgia (which causes widespread muscle and soft-tissue pain and tenderness).
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
May 23, 2008
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Guide1
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Leading GI specialist and psychiatrist, Dr. Douglas A. Drossman, explains just what Irritable Bowel Syndrome is in plain English.
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