Gastrointestinal tract symptoms and self-reported abuse: a population-based study

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• A link between abuse and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) has been suggested in outpatient settings but lacks population-based validation.
• Previous research on abuse and IBS has been limited, with no large-scale community studies investigating this association.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of abuse in a representative community sample.
• To investigate the association between reported abuse and gastrointestinal symptoms, including IBS, dyspepsia, and heartburn.
• To examine the relationship between abuse and physician visits for gastrointestinal complaints.

Main Methods:

• An age- and sex-stratified random sample of 919 residents (aged 30-49) from Olmsted County, Minnesota, participated.
• Participants completed a valid self-report symptom questionnaire.
• Abuse was assessed using standard published criteria.

Main Results:

• The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of any abuse was 26% (41% in women, 11% in men).
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) was reported by 14%, dyspepsia by 23%, and heartburn by 12% of participants.
• Significant associations were found between IBS, dyspepsia, and heartburn with various forms of abuse (sexual, emotional/verbal, childhood, adulthood).
• Individuals reporting abuse, particularly in adulthood and childhood, had higher odds of visiting a physician for gastrointestinal symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Self-reported abuse is prevalent in middle-aged populations.
• Individuals reporting abuse are more likely to experience symptoms consistent with IBS, dyspepsia, or heartburn.
• Abuse is associated with an increased likelihood of seeking medical attention for gastrointestinal symptoms.