May 14 - 21 has been dubbed National Women’s Health Week across the country. This is a special time for women to share their insight, opinion and stories about their health journeys. With gastroenterology, many illnesses choose no gender. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and acid reflux (to name a few) affect both males and females with many of the same symptoms. Does that mean we need to treat each case without gender in mind? Are there any conditions that affect women more than men? We’re here to answer these questions and more:
What GI conditions are most prevalent in women?
When we talk about the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, gender does come into play. For example, IBS is two to three times more likely to occur in women. Fortunately, it is not associated with any malignancy or dangerous consequences; it’s just as an occasional disturbance to the gut.
Along with IBS, functional dyspepsia and symptoms including heartburn, upset stomach and chronic indigestion are more common in woman than in men. Even colon cancer screenings are approached differently in females than males. In fact, a recent article out of Stony Brook University put it best: “The female colon is typically more difficult to scope because of the anatomically deeper pelvis, the frequency of adhesions from pelvic surgery and the fact that the flexures, or turns, are tighter.”
What distinguishes GANJ’s care for women?
Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey (GANJ) is the first of its kind in northern New Jersey to provide all the latest advancements in care to patients in the tristate area. With two excellent female physicians on board—along with an all-female staff, including a female nutritionist—GANJ is your go-to practice for female health. Our areas of expertise include:
To visit with our female gastroenterologists, please call Dr. Pazwash at 201-523-4141 or Dr. Abraham at 862-336-9988 to schedule an appointment.
