Prevalence and Risk Factors for Irritable Bowel Syndrome among Saudi Teachers

Aim of Study: To assess the prevalence, types and risk factors of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) among Saudi teachers in Khamis Mushayt City, Saudi Arabia.Subjects and Methods: A total of 402 teachers could be included in the present study. The data collection sheet comprised two parts, i.e., personal characteristics and the IBS questionnaire.Results: Almost three-fifths of teachers (73.9%) had symptoms of IBS. Most teachers had IBS with alternating diarrhea and constipation (IBS-M), (55.7%). Prevalence of IBS was significantly higher among teachers at primary and intermediate schools than those in secondary schools (78.4%, 77.9% and 65.4%, respectively, p=0.025). Females had higher prevalence of IBS than males (79.6% and 68.2%, respectively, p=0.009). Smokers had significantly higher prevalence than non-smokers (92.6% and 64.3%, respectively, p 0.00 1). Types of IBS were significantly different according to participant teachers gender (p=0.043), smoking status (p=0.004), and years of experience in teaching (p=0.005).Conclusions: Most teachers in Khamis Mushayt City have symptoms suggestive of IBS, with IBS-M is the most common type. Some personal characters are associated with significantly higher prevalence of IBS, (e.g., females and smokers; with higher prevalence of IBS-C and IBS-M among females and higher prevalence of IBS-D among males and all types of IBS are significantly higher among smokers than nonsmokers).Recommendations: To provide health education programs for teachers on how to avoid IBS. To provide health care services for teachers to mitigate symptoms of IBS, especially among high risk groups, e.g., females and smokers. To advise smokers, especially those who suffer from symptoms of IBS to quit smoking.