The prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders (Anxiety & depression) among IBS patients

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder. Growing evidence suggests a significant association between IBS and psychological problems, such as anxiety and depression. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of anxiety and depression in Jordanian patients diagnosed with IBS according to Rome IV criteria. Methods: The study was conducted at the Gastroenterology Department of Prince Hamza Hospital and New Zarqa Governmental Hospital in Jordan recruiting 681 patients. IBS diagnosis was established using the validated Rome IV criteria. Anxiety and depression were assessed using an Arabic version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: based on the ROME IV criteria used in this study, 529 (77.68%) people were found to be positive for IBS. Results revealed that 568 (83.41%) participants were not diagnosed with any psychological problems. However, 225 (33.0%) were positive for depression and 356 (52.3%) positive for anxiety among all participants. Conclusion: The findings revealed a high prevalence of depression and anxiety disorders among Jordanian patients with IBS. Suggesting the importance of screening for depression and Anxiety in newly diagnosed IBS patients.