People with EOSINOPHILIC GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDER (EGID) who rely on medical foods

Eosinophil-associated gastrointestinal disease such as eosinophilic esophagitis, gastritis, gastroenteritis and colitis (collectively known as “EGIDs”) are a chronic and complex group of diseases characterized by having above normal amounts of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in one or more specific locations in the digestive system. Accumulation of these cells cause inflammation and damage to the surrounding tissues and organs. While symptoms may vary among EGID subsets, common shared symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, poor growth, bloating, and vomiting. Patients may also have difficulty with feeding, tolerating foods, and/or gaining weight. There are no FDA approved therapies for EGIDs; the two main treatments are dietary therapy and medications (e.g., off-label use of steroids).

The Medical Nutrition Equity Act will provide key support for those Americans who rely on medical foods to survive and thrive.