First of I have heard of this for sure. Although I bet more studies would be needed to confirm it and I can see some possible flaws.Wording is important also, an "association" which is interesting.If I read this right these people had Bacterial gastroenteritis, that then developed into IBS? That is consistent and they have newer evidence that viruses may lead to it also as well now.Maybe this is another thing that pushes it over the edge so to speak for smokers.Of course many people get IBS who don't smoke.Interesting though.Thanks for posting it.