ABSTRACT
The irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is probably the commonest condition encountered by gastroenterologists. It affects approximately 20% of adults in the western world, although less than a third consult a doctor. Men and women are affected equally but women are more likely to consult a doctor. The condition forms part of a large number of functional gastrointestinal disorders (i.e. those not explained by any structural or biochemical abnormality), and is characterized by abdominal discomfort (often minor) associated with defecation or a change in bowel habit, with the additional features of disordered defecation and abdominal distension.
