CHICAGO, December 4, 2024 – Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week spotlights challenges faced by millions of Americans living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). With GI issues resulting in $136 billion annually in healthcare costs, Cylinder, the employee benefit provider for digestive health, today called for employers and health plans to help employees tackle digestive health issues such as IBD, bloating, constipation, heartburn, or a GI diagnosis.
According to a recent study in Gastroenterology, as many as 2.39 million Americans live with IBD, and the broader set of GI-related health problems impacts up to 70 million more people. But despite the prevalence of these digestive health issues, many with poor digestive health suffer in silence due to social stigma.
In fact, research conducted by The Harris Poll for Cylinder’s 2024 State of Gut Health in the Workplace Survey revealed that:
- 72% of employees who regularly experience GI symptoms or have a diagnosed GI condition report reduced workplace productivity due to digestive symptoms like bloating, constipation, or heartburn.
- Nearly 60% of those who regularly experience GI symptoms or have a diagnosed GI condition have had to miss work or adjust their schedules to manage symptoms.
- 67% of employees wish their workplace offered benefits for GI health.
“As we recognize Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week, we call on employers and health plans to normalize conversations about gut health and advocate for solutions that work for all of their members,” said Bill Snyder, founder and CEO of Cylinder. “Employers and health plans have a unique opportunity to reduce disparities by embracing and integrating digital health tools into their benefits plans to improve overall well-being.”
Cylinder’s digestive management platform is an employee benefit that provides tools like symptom tracking, GI-specific coaching, and nutrition therapy to those experiencing digestive issues. According to a clinical study published in BMJ Open Gastroenterology, 83% of Cylinder users reported significant improvement in managing digestive symptoms. These improvements translate to fewer workplace interruptions, reduced absenteeism, and greater productivity.
Cylinder members often share their success stories, such as Kathleen, who shared her struggle with ulcerative colitis and IBS and how Cylinder has helped her see the light at the end of the tunnel.
“Digestive health isn’t just a personal matter, it’s a workplace issue that affects everyone,” said Snyder. “Innovative digital health solutions such as Cylinder empower employers and health plans to create more inclusive environments where members are supported – not stigmatized – in managing their digestive health.”
About Cylinder
Cylinder is the leading virtual digestive health provider, delivering personalized, clinician-backed care for the full spectrum of gastrointestinal (GI) conditions and symptoms including GERD, Ulcerative Colitis, celiac disease, bloating, gas and more. With a dedicated care team that includes GI doctors, registered dietitians, and health coaches, Cylinder has helped over 100,000 people across all 50 states to date. Its platform combines digital access with evidence-based interventions to improve outcomes, reduce costs, and enhance quality of life. Backed by published, peer-reviewed clinical results, Cylinder delivers up to 5:1 ROI and industry-leading 13% employee engagement. Trusted by employers and health plans including Texas A&M University and US Foods, Cylinder is helping make GI care more accessible.
