Welcome to the monthly eNewsletter of the
International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)
Digestive Health Monthly - May 2018
As we prepare for Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2018, the largest annual gathering of researchers and physicians in the field of digestive health in the United States, we are reminded of the central role of research in shaping the future of the treatment and care of chronic gastrointestinal (GI) conditions.

When IFFGD first began in 1991, research into these conditions was limited and the patient perspective was rarely included in the scientific process. Much has changed since then. There are more ways than ever for patients and their family and friends to get involved in research. This month we look at some of the research that is being done in the field and ways to get involved.
Patient Perspectives
Gastroparesis patient Melissa shares her story for The Lancet
Medical journals are increasingly including the patient perspective among reports of research advances in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions. By sharing their experiences with a chronic GI condition, patients give researchers real-world context for their research and demonstrate the need that still remains.

In the newly launched Patient Perspectives section of The Lancet Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, gastroparesis patient and advocate Melissa talks about the loneliness and isolation that often accompanies a diagnosis of a chronic GI disorder like gastroparesis. You can read the full article by creating a free account.
Facebook Live
Kate Scarlata, RDN on the low FODMAP diet for IBS
Join IFFGD and registered dietitian, Kate Scarlata, for a Facebook Live chat on the role of the low FODMAP diet in managing symptoms of IBS - where we've been and future directions of the therapy. Tune in live on Monday, June 4 at 1:00 PM EST at www.Facebook.com/IFFGD.

Submit your questions on the low FODMAP diet and other dietary approaches to IBS to iffgd@iffgd.org.
IFFGD at Medical Meetings
Looking ahead to DDW 2018
IFFGD regularly works with healthcare professionals and Industry to support the treatment, scientific inquiry, and clinical care of chronic GI disorders. One way we do so is by participating in medical conferences and meetings to share resources and provide the patient perspective.

Next month IFFGD will be joining clinicians, researchers, students, and others to catch up on the latest research in the field of digestive health at Digestive Disease Week (DDW). Come visit us at booth #536. And, find a list of other IFFGD-attended events and meetings.
Clinical Trials
Your participation matters
What is a clinical trial?

Clinical trials are research studies designed to answer specific questions about new products and therapies, or new ways of using already known treatments, and are essential to the development of new and better ways of treating disease.

By participating in a study, you can help shape the future of the treatment and care of chronic GI disorders. Interested in learning more? Click here for a list of currently recruiting studies.
2 New Cosponsors for HR 1187
Support for digestive health from coast to coast
The Functional GI & Motility Disorders Research Enhancement Act is getting support from the Atlantic to the Pacific! New York's Congressman John Faso and California's Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren are the latest to sign on in support of this critical legislation and research funding for chronic GI disorders.

Is your House Member of Congress a cosponsor? Find out here. And, learn how you can take action to ensure your Representative's support.
IBS Awareness Month Recap
How quickly another April and another IBS Awareness Month has flown by. Among our activities to raise awareness last month, IFFGD sent out an awareness release to break down social taboos surrounding IBS symptoms, co-hosted a Twitter chat with The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation (CCF), participated in an awareness event for IBS-D in New York, went on a media tour for IBS awareness, and spoke with the Association of Gastrointestinal & Motility Disorders, Inc (AGMD) for a special airing of the Digestive Motility Hope radio show.

Thank you to everyone who joined us!
IFFGD is a nonprofit organization. We rely on donor support to fund research and to provide reliable information and support to those affected by chronic gastrointestinal disorders.
IFFGD | 414-964-1799 | iffgd@iffgd.org | www.iffgd.org