Treatments for irritable bowel syndrome: patients' attitudes and acceptability
2008

Patients' Attitudes Towards Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Sample size: 645 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Harris Lynsey R, Roberts Lesley

Primary Institution: University of Birmingham

Hypothesis

What are patients' attitudes and acceptability towards various treatments for irritable bowel syndrome?

Conclusion

Most patients were willing to accept various forms of treatment, but expressed reservations that need to be addressed.

Supporting Evidence

  • 84% of patients accepted tablets as a treatment option.
  • 82% accepted dietary changes.
  • 77% accepted yoga.
  • 59% accepted acupuncture.
  • 57% accepted suppositories.

Takeaway

Many people with irritable bowel syndrome are open to trying different treatments, but they have concerns that need to be understood.

Methodology

A postal questionnaire was sent to 645 participants to evaluate preferences and acceptability of nine forms of treatment.

Potential Biases

Potential bias from the researchers' backgrounds and the nature of qualitative data collection.

Limitations

The study had a low response rate and was limited to a predominantly Caucasian population.

Participant Demographics

Mean age 55.9 years, 73% female, 94% Caucasian.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Confidence Interval

95% CI for treatment acceptability varies by treatment type.

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6882-8-65

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