Impact of Gastrointestinal Disease in Canada

Media educates individuals on how to prevent certain digestive diseases (example includes diabetes).

Educate individuals on how to diagnose themselves with certain digestive complications. Example, Alactasia (lactose intolerance)- caused by inability to digest natural sugar, which is commonly found in dairy products.

Time off work to rectify digestive issues. (ie. time off work for surgery for colon cancer) This reduces the money flow in bank account.

Employer has to hire someone to replace a sick individual, so they do not reduce service and productivity.

Individuals who are lactose intolerant have to spend more to purchase lactose free milk, and be vigilant of what they eat.

Individual is burdened by the cost to cover medication, if they do not have healthcare benefits.

When an individual is diagnosed with Colon Cancer, this results in a long term disability and they have to take a lot of time off work.

Family will have to take time off work to take care of their sick family member.

Loss of income due to illness, causes family members to change lifestyle (example, purchasing sale items) so they can afford rent or mortgage.

Nearly 30% of Canadian children with celiac disease are initially misdiagnosed with celiac disease, resulting in the government paying for the unnecessary treatment.

When an individual is sick, this causes them to take time off work and reduces productivity, resulting in less goods and services.

This year, approximately 20 million Canadians will suffer from at least one digestive disorder, we will incur $18 billion in healthcare costs and lost productivity

Hospital stay for a hepatitis patient is $12,000. In 2004-2005, hospital stays for hepatitis cost more than $7 million, costing tax payers.