The prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome and its association with academic performance among medical students at Taibah University

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome among medical students, and to investigate its association with academic performance indicators.

Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted at Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia, from February to October 2023, and comprised second- to sixth-year medical students aged at least 18 years. Data was collected using a self-administered online questionnaire that explored sociodemographic information, medical history, exercise history and irritable bowel syndrome symptoms as per the Rome IV criteria. The association of irritable bowel syndrome was assessed with academic achievement, extracurricular activities, lecture attendance, and attention during lectures. Data was analysed using SPSS 26.

Results: Of the 1,020 students, 291(28.5%) completed the survey. Among them, 180(61.9%) were women, 69(23.7%) were in the third academic year and 260(89.3%) were non-smokers. Overall, 29(10%) subjects reported symptoms consistent with irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome negatively affected extracurricular activities, lecture attendance, attention during lectures and study hours (p<0.05), but the total grade point average was not affected significantly (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Irritable bowel syndrome had a significant impact on academic performance, showing associations with decreased attention during lectures, increased absences, and fewer hours spent studying.

Key Words: Irritable bowel syndrome, Prevalence, Academic success, Students, Medical.