World IBD Day 2024: Understanding the Theme, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of IBD with PGIMER | Health and Fitness

World IBD Day 2024: A Global Call to Action

World IBD Day is a significant event celebrated worldwide on May 19 each year. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and uniting all stakeholders in the fight against this debilitating condition. The theme for World IBD Day 2024 is “IBD has no borders,” highlighting the fact that IBD is no longer confined to Western countries but is now a global health concern affecting all inhabited continents.

IBD, which includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, affects around five million people globally, with India being home to the second-highest number of cases. Despite the increasing prevalence of IBD, there is still no definitive cure or established cause for the disease. Patients with IBD face chronic pain and suffering in their daily lives, often with little public awareness or understanding of their condition.

The rise in IBD cases in India and other developing countries is a cause for concern due to challenges in diagnosis, access to treatment, and the financial burden on patients. Factors such as changes in lifestyle, diet, and environmental influences are believed to contribute to the increasing incidence of IBD.

To address the growing burden of IBD, healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, proper management, and ongoing support for patients. Treatment options for IBD range from medication to surgery, with a focus on improving patients’ quality of life and reducing complications.

As part of World IBD Day 2024, the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) is organizing a patient education program to empower individuals living with IBD. The program will cover topics such as understanding IBD, available therapies, dietary recommendations, and preventive care measures. Patients are encouraged to participate in this event to gain valuable insights and interact with experts in the field.

World IBD Day serves as a reminder of the global impact of IBD and the need for collective action to support individuals living with this condition. By raising awareness, promoting research, and advocating for better healthcare resources, we can work towards improving the lives of those affected by IBD worldwide.