# Demographic and Clinical Epidemiology of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in U.S. Community Health Centers: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the 2022–2023 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey

## TL;DR

This study analyzed IBS cases in U.S. community health centers and found that women and patients with anxiety or GERD are more likely to be diagnosed with IBS.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into demographic and comorbidity patterns of IBS in community health center settings using nationally representative data.

## Key findings

- Female sex, anxiety, and GERD were significantly associated with higher odds of IBS.
- Black and 'Other' race patients had lower odds of IBS diagnosis.
- Hypertension was inversely associated with IBS, indicating possible differences in comorbidity patterns.

## Abstract

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent, burdensome gastrointestinal disorder frequently encountered in primary care. However, its demographic and comorbidity patterns in community health center (CHC) settings remain understudied.

Objective

To examine the demographic and comorbidity-related factors associated with IBS visits among U.S. community health center patients using nationally representative data.

Methods

A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis was conducted using the 2022-2023 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS). Survey-weighted logistic regression was used to assess associations between IBS diagnosis and demographic factors (age, sex, race/ethnicity) and comorbidities (anxiety, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), migraine, chronic pain, diabetes, and hypertension).

Results

Female sex (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=1.84), comorbid anxiety (aOR=1.69), and GERD (aOR=1.77) were significantly associated with higher odds of IBS. Race and ethnicity also showed significant variation, with Black and "Other" race patients having lower odds of IBS. Interestingly, hypertension was inversely associated with IBS (aOR=0.49), suggesting potential differences in clinical presentation or comorbidity clustering.

Conclusion

IBS in CHC settings is more prevalent among women and those with anxiety or GERD. At the same time, racial disparities and an inverse relationship with hypertension highlight the need for nuanced, patient-centered approaches in primary care.