Awareness Activities & Accomplishments

IFFGD works to direct public attention to the gastrointestinal (GI) functional and motility disorders. Many people with symptoms of these disorders don't connect them to a recognized condition. They often don't know much about the disorders or symptoms and try to self-treat. Recognizing chronic symptoms, and seeking medical attention for a correct diagnosis is important.

Moreover, though digestive or bowel related disorders are more prevalent than many people believe, they are not a topic that most want to – or do – talk about. We provide information about a lot of symptoms and disorders that people didn't know there are words for; and we help them to talk to their doctor and find support.

For people affected by gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, IFFGD provides information, assistance, and support. We . . .

• Publish state-of-the-art information about understanding the disorders
• Increase awareness among care providers and the public about the medical and personal issues faced by those affected
• Fight for more research
• Provide our members with a voice where it counts:
  • To the U.S. Congress which appropriates funding of research through the National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • To researchers in industries and institutions around the world
  • To clinicians who care for and treat patients

Working with Professionals in health care and industry, IFFGD forms alliances in support of treatment, scientific inquiry, and clinical care. We . . .

• Initiated and sponsor the biennial International Symposium on Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders for clinicians and investigators
• Developed the IBS Education Program Guide to facilitate community education programs
• Provide a resource of information about quality of life issues and the needs of people affected
• Participate in conferences and symposiums
• Provide patient support, assistance, and education
• Encourage support of scientific inquiry 
• Support research

We work to direct public attention to the functional GI disorders. We are regularly featured or referenced in numerous popular magazines, newspapers, television and radio programs, and journals as a source of information about functional GI and motility disorders.