Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Diagnostics Market Size, Trends and Growth Analysis by 2027

The global market for diagnostics related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is projected to grow significantly, reaching approximately US$ 3,880.91 million by 2028, up from US$ 2,470.61 million in 2020. This growth represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% from 2020 to 2028.

Several factors are contributing to the expansion of the IBS diagnostics market, including the rising incidence of irritable bowel syndrome and related disorders, as well as an increasing number of FDA approvals and advancements in diagnostic technologies. However, the complexities involved in accurately diagnosing IBS pose challenges that may impede market growth.

IBS is characterized as a gastrointestinal disorder that leads to abdominal discomfort, along with symptoms such as diarrhea and constipation. The condition can arise following a severe episode of diarrhea, often triggered by infections from bacteria or viruses. Additionally, IBS may be linked to an overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines. Individuals who have experienced significant stress, particularly during childhood, are more likely to exhibit symptoms of IBS.

The diagnostic process for IBS typically involves a thorough medical history review, a physical examination, and various imaging tests. Common diagnostic methods include lactose intolerance tests, breath tests for bacterial overgrowth, blood tests, and stool analyses. The choice of tests often depends on the predominant symptoms, which may include constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of both. Imaging techniques such as CT scans, X-rays, upper endoscopies, and colonoscopies are also utilized to aid in diagnosis.

IBS is a chronic condition that disrupts normal bowel function and is associated with abdominal pain. It is also referred to by several other names, including spastic colon, irritable colon, mucous colitis, and spastic colitis. Symptoms commonly associated with IBS include abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhea, and cramping.

The prevalence of IBS is notable worldwide. According to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, approximately 40% of IBS patients experience mild symptoms, 35% have moderate symptoms, and around 25% suffer from severe IBS. Various risk factors contribute to the development of IBS, including food allergies, the aftermath of gastroenteritis, irregular colon movements, abnormal serotonin levels in the colon, and mild celiac disease. A study published by NCBI in 2018 estimated that IBS affects between 10-16% of the U.S. population annually. Furthermore, the IBS Global Impact Report from 2016 indicated that the prevalence of IBS varies significantly by country, ranging from 1.1% in France and Iran to 35.5% in Mexico. The prevalence rates were reported as 17.5% in Latin America, 9.6% in Asia, 7.1% in North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, and 5.8% in the Middle East and Africa. This high prevalence is expected to drive growth in the IBS diagnostics market throughout the forecast period.

Diagnosis Insights

The IBS diagnostics market is categorized based on diagnostic methods into laboratory tests and imaging tests. In 2020, laboratory tests accounted for the largest market share, and this segment is anticipated to maintain its dominance through 2028. The growth of this segment is primarily driven by the increasing prevalence of IBS globally, which is expected to persist due to ongoing issues with bowel habits and abdominal pain, thereby enhancing the demand for diagnostic services.

Indication Insights

From an indication perspective, the IBS diagnostics market is divided into categories such as pain and cramping, diarrhea, constipation, and alternating constipation and diarrhea. The pain and cramping category held the largest market share in 2020 and is projected to continue leading the market by 2028. Medications such as antispasmodics and antidepressants are commonly prescribed to alleviate IBS-related pain and cramping.

Key sources consulted in the preparation of this report on the IBS diagnostics market include the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, the World Journal of Gastroenterology, the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation, the Gastrointestinal Society, and the Korean Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility, among others.