Prevalence and Determinants of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Among Pharmacy Students: A Cross-Sectional Study at the University of Zawia
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder significantly impacting quality of life, with university students, particularly those in demanding healthcare programs, being uniquely vulnerable due to academic stress and lifestyle changes. This study addresses the paucity of localized data on IBS among pharmacy students in Libya. Aim: To investigate the prevalence and determinants of IBS, and its association with lifestyle and psychological factors, among third and fourth-year pharmacy students at the University of Zawia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in December 2025 at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Zawia, involving 140 third and fourth-year pharmacy students (70 from each year). Data were collected using a structured, pre-validated questionnaire covering demographics, gastrointestinal symptoms, lifestyle, psychological factors, and medical awareness. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, with Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests, and a P-value < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The study population was predominantly female (97.1% in 3rd year, 98.6% in 4th year). While overall recurrent abdominal pain and its relation to bowel movements did not differ significantly between years, a statistically significant difference was found in bowel habits (P = 0.049), with predominantly diarrhea higher in the third year (22.9%) and predominantly constipation higher in the fourth year (31.4%). Fourth-year students exhibited significantly higher rates of sleeping less than 6 hours (54.3% vs. 30%, P = 0.012) and reported very high stress levels (38.6% vs. 1.4%, P < 0.001). IBS symptoms significantly worsened during exams for fourth-year students (92.9% vs. 74.3%, P = 0.006), and certain food triggers were more common in this group (70% vs. 51.4%, P = 0.049). Physician consultation and formal IBS diagnosis rates did not differ significantly between the two groups. Conclusion: IBS is prevalent among pharmacy students at the University of Zawia, with its severity and manifestation strongly linked to academic stress, sleep deprivation, and dietary habits, particularly as students advance in their curriculum. These findings highlight the critical need for targeted interventions, including psychological support, stress management, and wellness initiatives, to improve student well-being and academic success.
Institution: Al Zawiya University
Language: English
Subfield: Gastroenterology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7149358403