New data released by the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) shows 1 in 5 Americans are tolerating critical gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and not seeking care. Even though GI conditions have become more mainstream in public conversations and media, these findings underscore a need for critical dialogue to engage patients in important decisions around their gastrointestinal health, and raise awareness around more concerning conditions like exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI).
The new data comes at a time when digestive diseases account for more than 100 million ambulatory care visits every year in the U.S. (NIH.gov). Yet, 1 in 4 (25%) report they would not be concerned enough with symptoms of bloody stools, stomach pain or tenderness, unintended weight loss, foul-smelling, oily stools, diarrhea, gas, or bloating to talk to their health care provider. Even more concerning, severe GI conditions, such as EPI, can be difficult to recognize and are often under or misdiagnosed – delaying critical treatment that can greatly improve quality of life.