[Quality of life at dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome: population-based studies]

The aims of the study were to examine the prevalence of dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in the unselected population and to assess the quality of life (QOL) in these syndromes and their combination. The study involved 1,040 people, representing a random sample of adults aged 45-70 years (492 men, 548 women). To identify gastrointestinal symptoms using validated questionnaire, dyspepsia and IBS were diagnosed by Rome I criteria. QOL was assessed using a questionnaire SF-36. Dyspepsia was reported by 37.5% (30.1% men and 44.2% women, p < 0.001). The prevalence of IBS was 18.8% (12.0% men and 25,0% in women, p < 0.001). The combination of dyspepsia and IBS was noted in 12.0% (6.5% in men and 17.0% in women). Both dyspepsia and IBS cause significant decrease in QOL on most scales of the questionnaire SF-36 compared with those without these disorders. Their combination reduced QOL even more in comparison with isolated dyspepsia or IBS. Finally, high prevalence of dyspepsia and IBS was stated among the population, both conditions more frequently observed in women. QOL is significantly reduced in subjects with dyspepsia and IBS, especially if these syndromes combine.