The answer to all of these questions is false. Many women are misinformed about their digestive health. According to the American Digestive Health Foundation, at least 40 million Americans suffer from chronic digestive diseases that impact their lifestyle, and many more people are affected less severely by digestive illnesses. Women are more likely than men to suffer from certain gastrointestinal illnesses and are equally affected by colon cancer, the most deadly digestive disease. It is important that women openly discuss digestive health with their physician.
Women often think they are less at risk for digestive illnesses than men are.
This is not true. Women need to be aware of the symptoms, risk factors and screening options for common digestive diseases. Dr. Peura is available to answer questions about the causes, symptoms and treatments of these and other gastrointestinal illnesses. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder of the intestines that leads to abdominal cramps, gassiness, bloating and changes in bowel habits. Some people with IBS have constipation, others have diarrhea and some people have both.