A survey of 657 IBS patients in the United States revealed that the disease is a substantial burden on patients and entails high out-of-pocket costs and losses in productivity, among other findings.
The results of the survey were presented at the 67th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology in Seattle, Washington. Of the respondents, 65% met accepted criteria for IBS (Rome II). Of these, 95% were white, 79% female and 58% single. Mean age was 54 and mean age at IBS diagnosis was 41. Among those with IBS, 99% experienced one or more GI symptoms in the past 3 months, and two thirds of IBS patients experienced 10 to 24 GI symptoms during this period.
Almost all (97%) had had two or more consultation with a health care professional for their GI disorder in the past 3 months, and 75% had four or more consults (visits and telephone calls).
The use of multiple over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications and alternative therapies was common. Eighty-nine percent reported taking at least three therapies: one prescription, one OTC and one alternative medication. More than 40% reported taking two or more of prescription (57%), OTC (47%) and alternative (43%) therapies. Patients spent an average of US $258 for their GI disorder in the past 3 months. Of IBS patients who work, 39% reported missing work and experiencing decreased productivity for an average of 6 days and 16 days, respectively, as well as decreased productivity at home for an average of 16 days in the last 3 months. Ninety percent reported limited ability to perform important daily activities due to their GI disorder.
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