IBS in America: Despite advances, IBS remains a burden for many millions

Rhea-AI Summary

A comprehensive survey conducted by The Harris Poll, a Stagwell (STGW) company, in partnership with the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), reveals significant ongoing challenges faced by IBS patients. The study, comparing data from 2015 to 2024, surveyed 2,013 IBS patients and 600 healthcare providers.

Key findings show that IBS symptoms disrupt patients' productivity for nearly 11 days per month at work/school and 8 days in personal activities. Work/school absences have increased from 2.1 days in 2015 to 3.6 days in 2024. While fewer patients report extremely bothersome symptoms (43% vs 62% in 2015), 76% still find symptom management difficult.

The survey highlights a treatment gap, with healthcare providers primarily recommending over-the-counter options and lifestyle changes despite prescription medications being reported as most helpful by patients who have tried them.

[ "Survey reveals increased social media awareness of IBS (81% of healthcare providers agree)", "Fewer patients report extremely bothersome symptoms in 2024 (43%) compared to 2015 (62%)", "High treatment satisfaction reported among IBS-C and IBS-D patients (78% each)" ]

Positive

• None.

Negative

• IBS symptoms disrupt productivity 19 days monthly (11 days work/school, 8 days personal)
• Work/school absences increased to 3.6 days monthly in 2024 from 2.1 days in 2015
• 76% of patients still find symptom management difficult
• Only about 20% of patients are very satisfied with current treatments
• Treatment gap exists between prescribed medications and over-the-counter options

News Market Reaction – STGW

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+0.72% News Effect

On the day this news was published, STGW gained 0.72%, reflecting a mild positive market reaction.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

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FAQ

What are the key findings of the 2024 AGA IBS in America survey by Stagwell (STGW)?

The survey reveals that IBS symptoms disrupt patients' productivity for 19 days monthly, with 11 days affecting work/school and 8 days impacting personal activities. Work absences increased to 3.6 days monthly in 2024 from 2.1 days in 2015.

How has IBS symptom management changed between 2015 and 2024?

While fewer patients report extremely bothersome symptoms in 2024 (43% vs 62% in 2015), 76% still find symptom management difficult. Only about 20% of patients are very satisfied with current treatments.

What are the most common treatments recommended by healthcare providers for IBS according to the survey?

For IBS-C, top recommendations include fiber (30%), non-prescription laxatives (26%), and stool softeners (24%). For IBS-D, providers mainly recommend diet changes (26%), over-the-counter medications (26%), and probiotics (25%).

How does IBS impact patients' daily lives according to the 2024 survey?

77% of patients avoid situations with limited bathroom access, 72% find it difficult to plan activities, and 72% stay home more often. Additionally, 69% feel their symptoms prevent them from reaching their full potential.

What is the scope and methodology of the 2024 AGA IBS survey by Stagwell?

The survey included 2,013 IBS patients and 600 healthcare providers, conducted online by The Harris Poll between October-December 2024. It compared findings with a similar 2015 study to track changes in patient experiences and treatment landscape.