ASCP launches chronic constipation education initiative

ALEXANDRIA, Va. The American Society of Consultant Pharmacists on Thursday launched a comprehensive continuing medical education initiative for physicians, nurses, pharmacists and other health-care providers about chronic constipation.

Known as E-IMPACCT, Elderly IMProvements and Advances in Chronic Constipation Treatment, the program presents educational activities on evaluating and managing CC, and offers a range of tools to help clinicians in everyday practice.

 "Because of the cascade of complex health issues that can be triggered by chronic constipation, clinicians have expressed their need for targeted education about CC," stated ASCP executive director and chief executive officer John Feather. "Clinicians need to identify, recognize and differentiate CC and have a clear understanding of the pros and cons of each of the treatments and medications, the side effects and administration and efficacy data."

"For all clinicians, the management strategies for treating chronic constipation in the elderly should include a combination of patient and caregiver education and communication, dietary modifications, and treatment options," commented ASCP director of professional and educational affairs Trish D'Antonio Mazzuca. "Educational outcomes from E-IMPACCT will measure changes in clinician knowledge and behavior and improvements in patient care."

E-IMPACCT provides outcomes-based knowledge through an ongoing, thorough awareness campaign with educational components that will roll out over a 12-month period. Through this initiative, participants are presented with new information and certified continuing education activities, patient cases and guidelines designed to help clinicians better manage CC and improve outcomes in today's seniors.

Chronic constipation is the most common digestive complaint in the general population. In seniors, roughly 26 percent of men and 34 percent of women complain of constipation. Americans spend approximately $800 million per year on over-the-counter laxatives, the society reported.

The ASCP E-IMPACCT initiative is supported by an educational grant from Sucampo Pharmaceuticals and Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America.