![EoE Prevalence: US Stats & $1B Cost | [Year] Update - News Directory 3](https://img.medscapestatic.com/vim/live/professional_assets/medscape/images/thumbnail_library/dt_221004_sore_throat_neck_800x450.jpg "EoE Prevalence: US Stats & $1B Cost | [Year] Update")
EoE Prevalence: US Stats & $1B Cost | [Year] Update
- Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a chronic condition once considered rare, now affects about 1 in 700 individuals in the United States, according to recent research.
- The findings, published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, suggest that healthcare providers should anticipate encountering eosinophilic esophagitis in various clinical settings.
- Dellon, professor of gastroenterology and hepatology at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, noted the surprising rise in eosinophilic esophagitis prevalence.
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is surging across the US, with a fivefold increase in cases since 2009. This means more Americans than ever are affected by this chronic condition. Recent studies show that approximately 1 in 700 individuals now grapple with eosinophilic esophagitis, translating into a hefty $1.32 billion annual healthcare burden. The data underscores the urgency for healthcare providers to recognize the rising prevalence of eosinophilic esophagitis cases, particularly with common symptoms like dysphagia and abdominal pain. Researchers noted a surprising rise in eosinophilic esophagitis prevalence, prompting calls for greater awareness and proactive management. For further details on this and other health updates, visit News Directory 3. discover what’s next in EoE research and treatment.
EoE Cases Surge: US Sees Fivefold Increase, $1.32B in Costs
Updated June 03, 2025
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a chronic condition once considered rare, now affects about 1 in 700 individuals in the United States, according to recent research. The study reveals a fivefold increase in eosinophilic esophagitis cases since 2009, driving annual healthcare costs to an estimated $1.32 billion.
The findings, published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, suggest that healthcare providers should anticipate encountering eosinophilic esophagitis in various clinical settings. Researchers analyzed data from commercial claims and Medicare databases to assess the prevalence and economic burden of the disease.
Dr. Evan S. Dellon, professor of gastroenterology and hepatology at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, noted the surprising rise in eosinophilic esophagitis prevalence. “EoE is becoming more common,” Dellon said, emphasizing the need for healthcare professionals across different specialties to be aware of the condition.
The study identified over 20,000 EoE cases in the MarketScan database in 2022, with a mean age of 38. Common symptoms included dysphagia (39%), abdominal pain (24%), and esophageal stricture (19%). In the Medicare database, nearly 2,000 cases were identified in 2017, with a mean age of 73.Dysphagia (49%), abdominal pain (35%), and esophageal stricture (30%) were again prevalent.
The data translates to approximately 163 EoE cases per 100,000 people in the MarketScan database and 64 cases per 100,000 in Medicare. Standardized to the U.S. population, the overall prevalence is about 1 in 700, with higher rates among those younger than 65.
Dellon stated the rapid increase was surprising,suggesting EoE is no longer rare. “This almost triples our prior estimates of 1 in 2000 from 10 years ago, with all trends suggesting that the prevalence will continue to increase,” he said.
Endoscopy with dilation or biopsy was common among EoE patients, with upper endoscopy coded in 80%-90% of cases.Proton pump inhibitors (41%) and topical steroids (26%) were the most frequently prescribed medications.
Total healthcare costs associated with EoE were estimated at $1.04 billion in 2017, which inflates to $1.32 billion in 2024. Researchers believe this is likely an underestimate.
“Researching the prevalence and costs is essential to improving patient care by highlighting the growing burden of this recently recognized and growing chronic disease, guiding policy and insurer decisions, and advocating for better access to effective treatments and support for patients,” said Dr.Joy Chang,a gastroenterologist at the University of Michigan.
What’s next
Experts recommend clinicians remain vigilant for EoE symptoms and consider both medical and dietary strategies for optimal patient outcomes. Increased awareness and timely intervention are crucial to mitigating the growing impact of this chronic condition.