Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness among Primary Care Physicians and its Effect on Clinical Management, in Al-Khobar and Dammam Cities, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia

Introduction Primary care clinics are the first point of clinical contact for patients with unexplained gastroenterology symptoms. The lack of studies regarding irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in Saudi Arabia warrants an assessment of primary care physicians awareness of IBS and its clinical management. Objective To evaluate primary care physicians awareness of IBS diagnosis and management in the primary care setting, and to identify the influencing factors. Methodology A cross-sectional, simple random study was conducted through an electronic self-administered questionnaire. Results One hundred and one physicians were enrolled in the study. Agreement was achieved regarding the characteristics of IBS, although there was no consensus regarding the appropriate clinical diagnostic and management approach. Conclusion Physicians showed an average awareness of IBS, with consultants and specialists being the most aware. Most clinicians are not following evidence-based guidelines for the diagnosis and management of IBS.