Susan L. Mueller

Digestive diseases are a significant yet often underrecognized health burden in the U.S., impacting the gastrointestinal tract, liver and pancreas. Common conditions include gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gallbladder disease and gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. These disorders affect immune function, nutrient absorption and mental health through gut-brain pathways.

Employers have invested heavily in health and wellbeing programs for decades. But one of the challenges that remains consistent across industries: adult men underutilize preventive, primary and mental healthcare — even when they have equal benefits. This gap isn't a matter of preference; it reflects longstanding behavioral patterns, cultural norms and risk profiles that may drive avoidable costs and workforce instability.

Skip to main content main content, press tab to continue By | November 7, 2025 As the workforce ages, employers are adapting benefits to manage costs and retain talent. Mitigate rising costs while leveraging the experience of older workers by making key strategic changes. Employee Wellbeing|Health and Benefits N/A Currently, nearly one in four workers is over the age of 55 — a demographic shift major implications for benefit strategy and workforce planning.