Impact of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Symptoms and Well-Being in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patients: a Scoping Review.

Introduction : Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that significantly affects patient’s quality of life. It is characterized by a complex interplay of physical symptoms and psychological stress, with notable impact on daily function. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as a promising intervention, targeting the psychological aspects of IBS to manage symptoms and improve life quality. Recognizing its potential and effectiveness as a treatment modality, considering the varied presentations of IBS across different populations. Objective : To evaluate the effectiveness of CBT in the management of IBS symptoms among adults, focusing on the reduction of symptom severity, improvement in quality of life, and decrease in associated psychological distress. Methods: This Scoping Review adopted an exhaustive search strategy across both published and unpublished literature. It began with an initial focus on databases such as PubMed, followed by a broader search across EMBASE, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, LiLACS (BVS), PsycArticles (PsycNet), and ProQuest. Results: All 21 selected studies demonstrated that CBT had a positive impact on reducing abdominal pain and frequency in patients with IBS. Additionally, four studies directly assessed quality of life, showing significant improvements in this aspect. Conclusion : The reviewed literature highlights the significant role of CBT in IBS. CBT has been shown to improve gastrointestinal symptoms, reduce psychological distress and improve quality of life. It enhances self-efficacy and coping mechanisms by addressing cognitive distortions. Studies confirm that CBT leads to better clinical outcomes compared to educational support, with neurobiological findings showing reduced limbic activity, linked to decreased anxiety and symptoms. However, access to CBT remains limited, underscoring the need to address these barriers in standard IBS care.