The effect of irritable bowel syndrome on health-related quality of life and health care expenditures

Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 2011 Mar;40(1):11-9. doi: 10.1016/j.gtc.2010.12.013.

Abstract

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a highly prevalent condition with a large health economic burden of illness marked by impaired health-related quality of life (HRQOL), diminished work productivity, and high expenditures. Clinicians should routinely screen for diminished HRQOL by performing a balanced biopsychosocial history rather than focusing just on bowel symptoms. HRQOL decrements should be acknowledged and addressed when making treatment decisions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age of Onset
  • Cost of Illness*
  • Health Services Misuse
  • Humans
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome / economics*
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome / epidemiology
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome / psychology*
  • Prevalence
  • Quality of Life*
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Distribution
  • Surveys and Questionnaires