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Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Perturbations of Circulating miRNAs in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Detected Using a Multiplexed High-throughput Gene Expression Platform
Published on: November 30, 2016
[Epidemiological studies in irritable bowel syndrome]
Motoyori Kanazawa1, Shin Fukudo
1Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects 5-20% of people, with constipation-predominant IBS more common in women. Understanding IBS requires a bio-psycho-social approach due to its impact on quality of life and socioeconomic factors.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Epidemiology
- Psychosomatic Medicine
Context:
- Recent epidemiological studies reveal Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) prevalence ranges from 5% to 20%.
- Constipation-predominant IBS is notably more prevalent in women.
- IBS patients frequently exhibit non-gastrointestinal symptoms (somatization) and distinct illness behaviors.
Purpose:
- To synthesize current understanding of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) from epidemiological data.
- To highlight the multifaceted nature of IBS, encompassing physical, psychological, and social dimensions.
- To emphasize the need for a comprehensive bio-psycho-social model in clinical practice for managing IBS patients.
Summary:
- IBS prevalence varies widely (5-20%), with a higher incidence of constipation-predominant IBS among women.
- Patients with IBS often experience somatization and altered illness behaviors, impacting their quality of life.
- Despite low physician consultation rates, IBS poses significant socioeconomic burdens through direct healthcare costs and indirect effects like absenteeism.
Impact:
- Informs clinical practice by advocating for a bio-psycho-social model to address the complex needs of IBS patients.
- Highlights the substantial, often underestimated, socioeconomic impact of IBS on individuals and society.
- Underscores the importance of recognizing diverse patient aspects for effective IBS management and improved patient outcomes.
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