BETHESDA, Md., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — According to
findings from the new nationwide DISCUSS (Defining and
Identifying GapS in CommUnication
between GERD and/or Heartburn Sufferers and
PhysicianS) Survey, many people surveyed report that their
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and/or persistent heartburn
symptoms significantly disrupt their lives. Additionally, more than
half say that currently they “occasionally” (39 percent) or “never”
(19 percent) discuss GERD and/or heartburn symptoms with a health
care provider (HCP). The survey was released today by the American
Gastroenterological Association (AGA) in partnership with Takeda
Pharmaceuticals North America, Inc. (Takeda).
The DISCUSS Survey, fielded by Braun Research, Inc., surveyed
1,004 American adults who identified themselves as having GERD,
also known as acid reflux disease, and/or frequent and persistent
heartburn and who said they experience GERD and/or heartburn
symptoms two or more times per week when not treating the condition
(“sufferers”). Approximately three out of four sufferers (77
percent) describe their GERD and/or heartburn symptoms as moderate
to severe, and one-third (33 percent) have had to cancel social
activities or leave a social event early because of their symptoms.
Also, GERD and/or heartburn symptoms have caused 31 percent of
respondents to limit their physical activity, with approximately
two-thirds (205/309) of those who report limits on physical
activity being women. Currently, nearly one in five sufferers never
discusses symptoms with an HCP. These findings highlight the
importance of active, ongoing conversations about the symptoms and
triggers of GERD and/or heartburn between sufferers and HCPs and
suggest that resources to help open and improve the lines of
communications should be made available.
GERD is a chronic condition that affects nearly 19 million
Americans and is often characterized by pers
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