Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Its Association with Academic Stress Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18917812

Abstract

Background: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder with significant physical, psychological, and social implications. University students are particularly vulnerable due to high levels of academic stress, lifestyle changes, and limited coping mechanisms.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of IBS among university students in Lahore and to examine its association with academic stress.

Methods: An analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted among 380 undergraduate and postgraduate students aged 18–30 years, using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through an online questionnaire including the Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaire for IBS and the Academic Stress Inventory (ASI). Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression were applied.

Results: The prevalence of IBS was 32%. Common symptoms included abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. High levels of academic stress were reported by over half of the students, with exam anxiety being the most frequent stressor. Chi-square analysis revealed a significant association between exam anxiety and IBS (χ² ≈ 6.5, p < 0.05). Logistic regression indicated that high academic stress was an independent predictor of IBS (OR ≈ 2.0; 95% CI: 1.3–3.1; p < 0.01), while gender and living arrangements were not significant predictors.

Conclusion: IBS is highly prevalent among university students, and academic stress plays a central role in its occurrence. Interventions focusing on stress management, lifestyle modification, and awareness are crucial to reduce the burden of IBS and improve students’ overall well-being.