How common is IBS?

How common is IBS?

Lin Chang (UCLA Division of Digestive Diseases) gives expert video advice on: What is 'irritable bowel syndrome' or IBS?; What does 'irritable' mean in terms of IBS?; What is a 'bowel'? and more...

IBS is actually very common. It occurs in ten to twenty percent of the population and it has a worldwide prevalence. However, the prevalence is different depending on the methodology of the study, how you diagnose and how you conduct the study. In general, in the United States it's estimated to be about 10%. What's interesting about IBS is that the majority of individuals who actually have symptoms compatible to IBS do not seek healthcare.