Digestive Tract Paralysis Awareness Month

Digestive Tract Paralysis Awareness Month: Highlighting Rare Digestive Conditions

August is Digestive Tract Paralysis Awareness Month, an observance aimed at shedding light on digestive tract paralysis (DTP), which includes conditions like gastroparesis and chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO). These disorders disrupt the movement of food through the digestive system, causing debilitating symptoms.

Three Facts:

1. Digestive tract paralysis affects thousands of Americans with symptoms such as chronic nausea, severe bloating, and malnutrition.
2. DTP has no cure, and treatment typically focuses on symptom management—such as dietary modifications, medications, or medical devices.
3. Lack of awareness and limited treatment options make it essential to educate communities and advocate for research funding and support.

How to Get Involved:

1. Support organizations dedicated to digestive health and rare disease advocacy through donations or raising awareness.
2. Share personal testimonials, stories, or infographics on social media using #DTPAwareness.
3. Encourage more frequent visits to gastroenterologists for individuals experiencing chronic digestive tract paralysis symptoms.

Three Resources:

1. G-PACT (Gastroparesis and Dysmotility Association) – Resources on DTP conditions and advocacy opportunities.
2. IFFGD – Education on gastrointestinal disorders and patient support.
3. American Gastroenterological Association – Guides for understanding and managing paralysis-related digestive conditions.