In addition to the digestive disorders mentioned in your textbook, there’s a very common one experienced by many people. It’s called irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). According to the Mayo Clinic, up to one in five American adults have IBS, and this disorder accounts for more than one out of every ten doctor visits. Although many people deal with the symptoms of IBS, they often find it uncomfortable to discuss.

To learn about IBS, search the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Cleveland Clinic, or Mayo Clinic websites for information about irritable bowel syndrome. Then answer the questions that follow.