Disconnect between patients and doctors over symptom burden in Ulcerative Colitis

The results of an international survey called ‘Mind the Gap’ assessed patients’ and healthcare professionals’ differing perceptions of ulcerative colitis and were presented during the United European Gastroenterology Week. On average, patients reported almost six flare ups in the previous year while physicians reported almost four. Pain was ranked as very important for patients while physicians ranked urgency and stool frequency the highest. These key differences identified that improved communication between patients and their physician or specialist and better patient education would potentially address these issues.