UCONN IRB Portocol # X24-0162 Approved May 7, 2024
Study Title: Assessing the Symptoms and Management Strategies in Individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Faculty Advisor(s): Wanli Xu, PhD, RN (wanli.xu@uconn.edu)
You are invited to take part in a research study. This form contains information about the study as well as how to contact us if you have any questions.
What is the purpose of this study?
The aim of this study is to evaluate the symptoms and management approaches among individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We seek to understand:
- The impact of IBS symptoms on daily life.
- The strategies individuals employ to manage abdominal pain and other IBS-related symptoms.
- The use of marijuana for managing IBS symptoms, including users' perceived benefits and potential harms, in relation to symptom management and overall health.
What will you have to do if you agree to be in the study?
If you have been diagnosed with the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) from your doctor or a healthcare provider, and can read and write English, you are invited to participate in this study. Participants will complete an anonymous online questionnaire about pain and symptoms, management strategies, and marijuana use, which will take approximately 10 minutes.
Are there any possible risks to you because you are in this study?
There are no anticipated risks associated with completing the survey.
Are there any possible benefits to you because you are in this study?
You are unlikely to benefit personally from this research. However, your participation could contribute to understanding of IBS management and the role of marijuana in symptom management, which could lead to improved guidance for individuals with IBS, potentially identifying more effective or holistic treatment options. Upon completion of the survey, you are invited to enter a raffle for a chance to win one of eight $50 Amazon gift cards.
How will your study information be protected?
We will do our best to keep the information we collect from you confidential. Neither IP addresses nor any identifying information will be collected. Data will be managed and stored in password protected computers at the University of Connecticut that can be only accessed by our research team. However, absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed. Your privacy will be protected to the extent that the technology utilized allows.
Important Contact Information
You can contact Wanli Xu at wanli.xu@uconn.edu if you have any further questions about this project or if you have a research-related problem. Furthermore, if you have any questions regarding your rights as a research participant, please contact the UConn IRB Office at irb@uconn.edu or (860) 486-8802. The IRB is a group of people who review research studies to protect research participants' rights and well-being.
Your participation is voluntary
Your participation is entirely voluntary. You may choose not to participate or withdraw at any time without penalty. Declining or withdrawing will not affect your relationship with UConn.
Click https://uconn.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0SRTfGUbw6pENYa if you agree to part of the study.
For more information, contact: Wilfred Elliam at wilfred.elliam@uconn.edu