National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse

National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse

The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) was an information dissemination service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The NDDIC provided information about digestive diseases to patients, health care professionals, and the general public.

History

The NDDIC was established in 1980 as part of the NIDDK's efforts to improve the dissemination of information related to digestive diseases. It aimed to increase public awareness and understanding of digestive health issues and to provide resources for those affected by digestive diseases.

Mission

The mission of the NDDIC was to provide accurate and up-to-date information about digestive diseases, including their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. The clearinghouse served as a resource for patients, families, health care professionals, and the public, offering educational materials and guidance on managing digestive health.

Services

The NDDIC offered a variety of services, including:

• Publications: The clearinghouse produced and distributed a wide range of publications, including fact sheets, booklets, and brochures on various digestive diseases and conditions.
• Information Specialists: Trained information specialists were available to answer questions and provide guidance on digestive health issues.
• Online Resources: The NDDIC maintained a comprehensive website with information on digestive diseases, including a searchable database of publications and resources.

Topics Covered

The NDDIC covered a broad range of topics related to digestive health, including but not limited to:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
• Celiac disease
• Liver diseases, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis
• Pancreatitis
• Gallstones

Closure

In 2015, the NDDIC was closed as part of a reorganization of the NIDDK's information dissemination efforts. The resources and information previously provided by the NDDIC were integrated into the broader NIDDK website and other NIH resources.

Legacy

The legacy of the NDDIC continues through the ongoing efforts of the NIDDK to provide comprehensive and accessible information on digestive diseases. The integration of NDDIC resources into the NIDDK's broader information dissemination strategy ensures that the public continues to have access to valuable information on digestive health.