Publication:

Assessment of IBS symptoms among patients of lower socio-economic strata attending medicine OPD in a tertiary care hospital in South Delhi

Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional disorder throughout the world with no clear diagnostic markers. The diagnosis relies mostly on clinical presentation. In India, IBS is less estimated in lower socioeconomic group population. The objective of this study was to assess the proportions of symptoms compatible with IBS, and its prevalence among the patients of low socio-economic strata.

Methods An OPD based observational study carried out in a tertiary care hospital in south Delhi for a period of 10 years (Nov-2006 to Oct-2016). This hospital caters to low socioeconomic strata. All the study subjects were interviewed based on questionnaires compatible with Manning and Rome II criteriaResults: Symptoms of IBS was more in male (65.12%) and highest prevalence was in the age group 31 to 35 years (56.62%), flatulence was found to be the most common symptom compatible with IBS (58.37%) followed by pain abdomen (42.9%), loose motion (38.6%) and constipation (30.5%). The other important associated symptoms were headache 47.7% and insomnia in 44.62%.

Conclusions The symptoms compatible with IBS are common among the lower socioeconomic strata leading to a negative impact on their health-related quality of life and work performance, with high rate of physician's visits and further deteriorating their economic condition. Early diagnosis and health education may improve the quality of life and productivity in this population.