Here is a list of ten facts everyone should know about IBD
- Between 1.6 and 3.1 million Americans have IBD.
- Most people who have IBD are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 35 years old.
- Genetics is thought to be the cause of these diseases. And is thought to be triggered by an over response of the immune system to bacteria in the gut.
- 66-75% of people with Crohn’s disease will have at least one operation in their lifetime.
- 23-45% of people with Ulcerative Colitis will have at least one operation in their lifetime.
- 20% of people with Ulcerative Colitis will have to get a colectomy.
- For some with IBD surgery is optional, for others it can be mandatory depending on previously tried medications as well as severity and progression of the disease.
- In Europe, they usually opt for surgery first before trying medications like biologics. In the US we tend to use the reverse approach.
- Ulcerative Colitis only affects the colon, while Crohn’s Disease can affect any part of the digestive tract.
- Treatments include medication, surgery, and diet changes.
While there is so much more information out there for IBD, I hope this list is helpful and gives you insight on both these diseases. This is also a good list to share with friends or loved ones to give them general information about your disease and answer some commonly asked questions. You can check out the article from Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation this list came from HERE.
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