News

Our recent research into lactose intolerance revealed that diagnosis of symptoms is a key area of frustration for many people.

During our latest research project, conducted in December last year, we questioned 21,000 people on all aspects of lactose intolerance.

One of our main findings revealed that, when experiencing digestive discomfort, 80% of respondents first approached their GP for help. However, these respondents also recorded low satisfaction ratings based on the GP’s assessment and management of their symptoms. In particular, many people are wrongly diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), when they are, in fact lactose intolerant.

However, it is not just patients who experience frustration when trying to diagnose their symptoms. Many GPs surveyed during the research gave insight into the limitations and frustration they felt when it came to treating those with common symptoms that one would normally associate with (IBS).

While nutritional advice is often sought from GP’s, this is more associated with diabetes, obesity and coronary heart disease in accordance with NHS Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) targets. As a result, food intolerance, particularly dairy related, is felt to be low on the GP agenda.

Our own expert and Advisory Board member, Dr Adam Fox, comments: “It’s clear that with upcoming NHS reforms and possible changes in QOF targets that lactose intolerance is not high on the GP agenda in relation to other more life threatening conditions. However, with time, money and resources being in short supply in the NHS, ensuring relatively straightforward conditions such as lactose intolerance do not clog up the system should be a priority. More simple, quick and effective outcomes can be sought if the right information is available to GPs and other healthcare professionals. When it comes to lactose intolerance, two GP appointments on diagnosis is one appointment too many.”

How were you diagnosed with lactose intolerance? Please share your stories in the comment section below.

Lactofree’s latest research figures are based 21,000 respondents, questioned during research conducted by TNS in December 2010.