Annually celebrated on May 19, World Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Day is a global initiative aimed at bringing people together in their battle against Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis which make up the IBD. This day serves the purpose of raising the awareness bar and educating everyone about these life-altering diseases.
This day also fosters support to enhance the living standards of those grappling with IBD and to eventually discover a lasting cure. Accordingly, numerous individuals, healthcare professionals, and organizations from across the globe join hands for this worldwide program to strengthen the voice and demonstrate their unity with those dealing with these chronic ailments.
History of World IBD Day
World IBD day is an annual worldwide event that takes place on the 19th of May, dedicated to raising global awareness of inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. This powerful initiative unites individuals across the globe in the fight against these devastating diseases, which are often misunderstood.
The idea for an awareness day sprouted in the early 2000s, but the concept of having a separate day devoted solely to IBD came into being in 2010. This was made possible due to the collaborative efforts of the European Federation of Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis Associations (EFCCA) in partnership with its member associations. They all worked together to launch a day that would spotlight these illnesses internationally.
While the observance initially had a strong presence in Europe, it didn’t take long for it to spread worldwide. This was facilitated by the contributions from the International Organization For the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IOIBD) and several other non-profit entities around the globe.
The first ever World IBD Day was commemorated on May 19, 2010. Since then, every year, iconic landmarks all over the planet light up in purple (the color symbolizing IBD awareness) in honor of this day.
World IBD Day is more than just about raising awareness about IBD and its implications on sufferers. It also underlines the importance of advancements in research and advocates for better access to care and treatments. Another crucial aspect of this day involves lobbying for more recognition of IBD patient needs from the public and political sectors.
World IBD Day Timeline
First Clear Description
Crohn's disease, one form of IBD, was first clearly described by Dr Burrill B. Crohn, Dr Leon Ginzburg, and Dr Gordon D. Oppenheimer.
Surgery Advancements
Advancements in surgery during 1960s gave physicians a new way to treat IBD by removing parts of the affected intestine.
First IBD Gene Discovered
NOD2/CARD15 gene was the first gene associated with increased risk of developing Crohn's disease.
IBD Standard of Care
By the early 2000s, combined medical therapy and surgery became standard of care for IBD control.
First World IBD Day
The first World IBD Day was recognized and officially celebrated, with the primary goal of raising awareness about the disease.
Microbiome Research
Increasing research focusing on the role of the gut microbiota in IBD, uncovering potential for new treatment strategies.
Continuing the Fight
World IBD Day continues to promote awareness and offering support to patients worldwide.
Ideas to Celebrate World IBD Day
Wear Purple
Encourage colleagues, friends, and families to wear purple in support of IBD. Create social media campaigns where they can share their photos.
Awareness Run
Organize a local run or walk event. This can be a sponsored event with proceeds going to charities supporting IBD research or patient care.
Education Seminar
Host an educational seminar about IBD. Invite doctors, patients, care givers and anyone interested to come learn about IBD.
Bake Sale
Organize a bake sale, ensuring to include options for those with dietary restrictions due to IBD. The funds raised can be donated to IBD research.
Webinar Series
Set up a series of webinars featuring healthcare professionals, patients and caregivers sharing their experiences and answering questions about IBD.
Social Media Campaign
Launch a social media campaign sharing facts about IBD and stories from people in your community who are living with the disease. Encourage others to share the posts and spread awareness.
8 Interesting Facts About Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD Is Really Two Diseases
IBD refers to two distinct conditions with similar symptoms: Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Ulcerative colitis affects only the colon and rectum, whereas Crohn’s disease can occur anywhere along the digestive tract.
Affecting People Globally
Inflammatory Bowel Disease affects approximately 1.6 million Americans and millions more worldwide. It's not exclusive to any particular demographic, affecting both genders equally.
Link to Genetics
Scientists believe IBD is linked to genetics. Around 25% of people with IBD have a close family member with the same disease.
Significant Impact On Quality Of Life
People suffering from IBD often undergo major lifestyle changes due to their symptoms, which can include severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, depression, anxiety, and fatigue.
Potential Environmental Factors
IBD is more common in developed countries, urban areas, and northern climates, suggesting that environmental factors such as diet and hygiene may play a role in its development.
Smoking's Diverse Impact
Interestingly, smoking seems to have opposite effects on the two main forms of IBD. It is associated with worse outcomes and a higher risk of surgery in patients with Crohn's disease, while it appears to have a protective effect on individuals with ulcerative colitis.
No Known Cure Yet
Despite advancements in medical science, there is still no known cure for IBD. Treatments focus on reducing inflammation and managing symptoms.
Diverse Triggers
There is no specific diet known for causing IBD, but dairy products, high fiber foods, spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine can trigger symptoms in some individuals with IBD.
World IBD Day FAQs
Next World IBD Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 19th | Friday |
| 2024 | May 19th | Sunday |
| 2025 | May 19th | Monday |
| 2026 | May 19th | Tuesday |
| 2027 | May 19th | Wednesday |
| What is the pattern? | Every May 19th | |
World IBD Day Word Search
- Inflammatory
- Bowel
- Disease
- Awareness
- Digestive
- Symptoms