[Prevalence and risk factors of the development of irritable bowel syndrome in adolescents: a population study].

Aim: To determine prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and associated factors in a community-based population of adolescents.

Material And Methods: 189 schoolboys and 250 schoolgirls aged 14-17 years from four randomly chosen schools of Novosibirsk participated in the study.

Results: The prevalence of IBS defined according to Rome criteria was higher in girls (24 vs 14% in boys, p = 0.01). Colonic pain frequency was similar in both genders (11% in girls vs 9% in boys, p = 0.46), however disturbed defecation occurred significantly more often in girls than in boys (16 vs 7%, p = 0.003). Half of the subjects who reported IBS had also dyspeptic symptoms. Fiber-rich diet and/or laxatives to prevent constipation were used by 2% of boys and 7% of girls (p = 0.012). However, only one third of those having less than 3 stools a week thought it abnormal. IBS is associated with the age over 15-16 years, female gender, abdominal pain in childhood, appendectomy, irregular meals and smoking (in girls). No association was found with other socio-demographic factors and serological markers of some infections and invasions (H. pylori, G. lamblia, O. felineus, hepatitis viruses B and C). Of the persons with diagnosable IBS, 49% have consulted a physician about it, 21% have undergone upper endoscopy. School absenteeism was reported by 62% of the IBS sufferers.

Conclusion: IBS is common among adolescents (especially girls) with the prevalence rates similar to those described in adults from West Europe and USA. These disorders are associated with significant disability and health care costs.