Program Description

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) significantly impairs both the quality of life and the productivity of individuals suffering from the disease. The prevalence of IBS is estimated to be between 8% and 17% of the U.S. population. This condition represents approximately 12% of visits to primary care physicians and as much as 28% of visits to gastroenterologists in the U.S. Economic consequences of the disorder, represented by health care expenditures as well as lost productivity in the workplace, are significant.

The treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has traditionally been aimed at alleviating symptoms. Pharmaceutical innovations are producing new therapies that target the disease rather than just the symptoms. This symposium will address the economic and quality of life impact of IBS and provide information on new and emerging treatment alternatives.