# Prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome and its association to mental health among the private university students of Dhaka, Bangladesh

## TL;DR

This study found that nearly one-third of university students in Dhaka, Bangladesh, have IBS, with mental health and lifestyle factors strongly influencing its prevalence.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into IBS prevalence and its mental health and lifestyle associations among Bangladeshi university students.

## Key findings

- 31.63% of students had IBS, with females having 1.71 times higher odds than males.
- Severe anxiety and stress were strongly linked to IBS, with odds increasing by 3.14 and 3.39 times, respectively.
- Physical activity and vegetable consumption reduced IBS risk, while malnutrition increased it by 77%.

## Abstract

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common gastrointestinal disorder linked to psychological distress and lifestyle factors. In Bangladesh, young adults may experience exacerbated IBS symptoms due to particular hardships. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of IBS and its association with mental health status among private university students. A cross-sectional study conducted between November 2023 and May 2024 and involved 550 students aged 19–40 years from three private universities in Dhaka, Bangladesh selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected via in-person interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire that included the Rome III and the DASS-21 scale. Pearson’s χ² test was used to explore associations and multiple logistic regression was employed to identify factors influencing IBS. The prevalence of IBS among the students was 31.63%. Female students had higher odds of developing IBS compared to males (AOR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.19 to 3.36). Psychological distress was strongly associated with IBS, with students experiencing severe anxiety (AOR = 3.14, 95% CI: 1.11 to 7.24) and stress (AOR = 3.39, 95% CI: 1.16 to 6.79) showing increased odds of IBS. Additionally, satisfaction with academic major (AOR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.18 to 0.96) indicates 54% lower odds of IBS compared to those who were unsatisfied. Physical activity (AOR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.29 to 0.90) shows a 36% reduction in the odss of IBS with moderate physical activity (20–60 minutes per day). Daily vegetable consumption (AOR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.67 to 0.89) suggested a 19% lower odds of IBS. Malnutrition (AOR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.11 to 2.82) was associated with a 77% increased odds of IBS. The findings emphasize the importance of implementing comprehensive campuswide health promotion programs that address psychological distress, promote healthy lifestyle choices, and provide nutritional guidance to alleviate the burden of IBS among them.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that can significantly impact the quality of life, especially among young adults facing academic and social pressures. This study assessed the prevalence of IBS and its association with mental health and lifestyle factors among private university students in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Findings revealed that approximately one-third of the students were affected by IBS, with females showing a higher likelihood of experiencing the condition. Psychological distress, particularly severe anxiety and stress, was strongly linked to higher odds of IBS. Conversely, satisfaction with academic major, engaging in moderate daily physical activity, and regular vegetable consumption were associated with a reduced risk of IBS. Malnutrition was identified as a significant risk factor, increasing the odds of IBS. The results emphasize the intricate relationship between lifestyle behaviors, nutrition, and mental health in the development of IBS among university students. These findings highlight the importance of campus health programs that support mental well-being, encourage nutritious diets, and promote regular physical activity to help lessen the impact of IBS among students.