People with the inflammatory bowel diseases, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, miss an average of 17-18 days of work per year because of these conditions, however most never tell their bosses the real reason for these absences, a major new study has revealed.

The study, Gut Responses - Irish Crohn's and Colitis Workplace Experiences, involved over 600 people living with one or both of these conditions.

Crohn's and ulcerative colitis cause inflammation and ulcerations of the small and large intestines. There is currently no cure for either condition and treatment usually involves drug therapy, and if this fails, surgery.

Both conditions can cause moderate to severe reactions, such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, reduced appetite and weight loss. Other symptoms can include joint pain, eye inflammation and skin problems.

These illnesses can start in childhood and there is currently no cure. According to the Irish Society of Colitis and Crohn's Disease (ISCC), both conditions are serious but under-recognised diseases. Those affected have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer and of dying prematurely.

The study found that while Crohn's and ulcerative colitis can lead to high rates of absenteeism from work, just 30% of those affected had confided in their bosses about their illness. Over 70% said that they feel stressed and pressured when they are absent from work as a result of these conditions, while 59% said that the illnesses have greatly affected their earning potential.

When it comes to day-to-day life, the conditions also have a major impact in work. Some 94% admitted that the location and availability of toilets are a deciding factor for meetings and other work events that may take place during their working day.

Almost 40% of those affected said that they can have nine or more bowel movements on any given day if they are experiencing a flare-up and this can lead to them being the subject of crude jokes by colleagues. A further 59% admitted to feeling very irritable in work as a result of their illness.

"The survey shows that people with Crohn's and colitis are hesitant about talking to their colleagues or boss about their illness. They feel stressed about the days they are absent from work and they don't feel like there is enough support on the emotional and psychological effects of living with Crohn's and colitis," commented ISCC chairperson, TriciaMcArdle.

In response to this, the ISCC has produced a range of educational materials for employees with Crohn's or colitis, the employers of people with Crohn's or colitis, and also for students living with the conditions.

"These will hopefully ease the stress of having that conversation with an employer, colleague or friend about the condition," Ms McArdle noted.

The information materials, which were developed in partnership with AbbVie, are available to download from the ISCC website here

Meanwhile the study also revealed that almost one-third of people with these illnesses may end up waiting over a year for a formal diagnosis.

"While the results from the survey may seem quite shocking, it's only when a study like this is carried out that positive moves can be made to make the life of someone with Crohn's or colitis that little bit more manageable. Some 46% of people report having limited or no access to a nurse who specialises in Crohn's and colitis care. We need to strive to reduce this number so that all patients have equal access to appropriate care and support," commented consultant gastroenterologist at Beaumont Hospital, Dr Aoibhlinn O'Toole.

She added that the new information resources developed by the ISCC ‘are most welcome and will certainly aid in easing the stress and anxiety felt by those living with Crohn's and colitis for the future'.

For more information on Crohn's and colitis, click here