Prevalence and associated factors of irritable bowel syndrome among the adult population in Aseer region, Southern Saudi Arabia

Background The global prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is alarming, with approximately 10–15% of the population affected. However, addressing risk factors is a primary prevention measure for reducing the prevalence of IBS in the community. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of IBS among adults in the Aseer region of southern Saudi Arabia. Methods This cross-sectional community-based study was conducted from June to September 2025. Stratified two-stage cluster sampling was used to select the study participants. A validated self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, health-related factors, lifestyle, and habits. IBS was diagnosed according to the ROME-IV criteria. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with IBS. Results were presented as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), and p -values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results A total of 1,216 adult participants (611 females and 605 males) were evaluated for IBS. The prevalence of IBS was 23.2% based on the ROME-IV criteria. The prevalence of IBS was significantly higher among females than males (25.9% vs . 20.5%, p = 0.027). IBS prevalence was significantly higher in individuals with gastrointestinal tract (GIT) infections (45.9% vs . 13.3%), sleep disorders (31.8% vs . 12.5%), painkiller use (36.0% vs . 18.5%), antibiotic use (37.5% vs . 21.4%), a family history of IBS (31.6% vs . 11.4%), and depression or anxiety (31.9% vs . 11.4%) than in those without these factors (all p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that the independent predictors of IBS included recurrent GIT infection (adjusted OR = 3.6, 95% CI: 2.62 − 4.98, p < 0.001), sleep disturbance (aOR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.13–2.27, p = 0.009), family history of IBS (aOR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.33–2.51, p < 0.001), and depressed mood or loss of interest (aOR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.40–2.87, p < 0.001). Conclusions This study identified a high prevalence of IBS, with various risk factors, among adults in the Aseer region of southern Saudi Arabia. Understanding the risk factors for IBS is essential for developing effective intervention strategies that improve the quality of life of affected individuals throughout their lives.