Clinical Presentation of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Related Quality of Life among Cameroonian Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study
Abstract
Background: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain and altered bowel habits without structural abnormalities. Though non-lethal, it significantly affects the quality of life of sufferers. In Sub-Saharan Africa, data on IBS are limited.
Objective: Describe the clinical presentation of IBS and the quality of life among medical students in our country.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in two medical schools. Stratified sampling was employed for a total of 260 students recruited. Data gathered included sociodemographic details, Rome IV diagnostic criteria, Bristol stool scale, gastrointestinal symptoms, and quality of life items. Statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS version 26.
Results: Out of the 260 students, the prevalence of presumed IBS was 11.2%. IBS-C was most common (41.4%), followed by IBS-D (31%), IBS-M (20.7%), and unclassified (6.9%). IBS-C was significantly associated with females, irregular meals, and morning predominance of pain. The triad of defecation-related abdominal pain, altered stool consistency, and altered stool frequency was present in 68.9% of cases. Most cases reported diffuse (62.1%), persistent (34.5%) abdominal pain with mixed triggers and relieving factors. Quality of life was altered in 58.6% of cases, with 10.3% experiencing severe impairment.
Conclusion: Presumed IBS among medical students in our study was non-negligible, with a predominance of IBS-C. Clinical profile was dominated by diffuse, persistent abdominal pain with multiple triggers. Quality of life was altered in most students.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ndam Antonin Wilson Ndjitoyap, Tenone Danah, Lewat Eric Tchoumi, Domissek Desire Bakelak, Paul Talla, Andoulo Firmin Ankouane, Mathurin Kowo, Ndam Elie Claude Ndjitoyap, Oudou Njoya
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