Commentary: sociocultural factors in medicine and gastrointestinal research

(Table is included in full-text article.)The authors examine the work by Gerson et al., with respect to the role of cultural factors in clinical gastrointestinal practice and research. These often underappreciated factors play an important role in the diverse populations that clinicians work with in westernized countries and internationally. This study argues for the importance of addressing culture when examining the perception of symptoms and the roles of physician and patient. Research questions as well as treatment decisions can be compromised if a patient's cultural belief systems are not accommodated. Sociocultural factors affect physician-patient interactions and particularly affect how symptoms are reported and treated. An understanding of specific cultural contributions to symptom experience can enhance the clinician's ability to engage in more effective research and treatment.