Antibiotic Use in Childhood Linked to Increased Risk of IBS by Young Adulthood

A new study revealed during the UEG Week 2026 in Barcelona has established a connection between antibiotic use from childhood and a heightened risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by age 24. The findings, based on analysis from the Swedish BAMSE birth cohort, highlighted a direct correlation between the frequency of antibiotic prescriptions and the likelihood of having IBS.

The research evaluated data from 2,853 participants. It noted that 10% were diagnosed with IBS by age 24. Among IBS sufferers, 87.8% had a history of antibiotic use, compared to 80.2% without the condition. The study also found an increased risk correlating with the number of prescriptions. Notably, certain antibiotic classes such as tetracyclines and cephalosporins had higher odds of resulting in IBS.

Dr. Jessica Sjölund emphasized the importance of cautious antibiotic prescribing, despite their critical role in treating infections, due to potential long-term effects.