OBJECTIVES To understand patient attitudes and perceptions towards acid related diseases (ARD). Furthermore to reveal the degree to which ARD affect patient lives, and uncover their level of satisfaction with prescription medicines. METHODS On line Canadians 18+ years were solicited by email by a national interactive research organization. Those who reported a diagnosis of stomach ulcer, duodenal ulcer, heartburn, acid reflux/GERD/reflux esophagitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or dyspepsia/stomach pain, and who have taken prescription medicines for at least one month were directed to an on line interactive English or French survey instrument from July – August 2007. RESULTS A total of 1033 ARD patients responded(East 106,Quebec 260,Ontario 364,West 303). The following conditions were reported: stomach ulcer (64); duodenal ulcer (20); heartburn (219); Acid Reflux/GERD (647); Dyspepsia (80); IBS (7). A 2-year average delay was reported before talking with their physicians about their symptoms. They experience numerous troublesome symptoms prior to taking medication including heartburn, acidic taste, stomach pain, indigestion, chest pain, and sleeping problems. Prior to seeking care and medication for these symptoms, four in ten reported they felt tired, worn out and were unable to sleep. Nearly one in ten report missing work. Patients make changes to their diet, social, work and daily activities to compensate for their conditions. 80% experienced at least one somewhat severe or severe symptom prior to treatment, while only 21% did post treatment. 45% of patients were referred to a specialist with an average wait time over 12 weeks. Of those referred, 47% underwent an endoscopy. CONCLUSIONS Canadians suffering from ARD experience numerous troublesome symptoms that negatively impact their quality of life, including missing work, yet on average they wait two years before seeking help from their physician. Nearly one half are referred to specialists and about half of these receive an endoscopy.