Discover How to Support World IBD Day and Raise Awareness Today
Explore impactful ways to participate in World IBD Day and contribute to raising awareness about inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
This year's World IBD Day focuses on the theme “IBD has no age,” highlighting the impact of inflammatory bowel disease on older adults. You can join the movement by wearing a purple ribbon, educating yourself, or attending local events.
Health awareness days provide a platform to increase public understanding of important conditions. They empower patients and their families while fostering community support. World IBD Day, observed annually on May 19, is a global effort to spotlight inflammatory bowel disease.
If you or someone you know lives with IBD, keep reading to learn about this special day and how you can get involved.
Understanding IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses two chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract:
- Ulcerative colitis affects the inner lining of the colon and rectum.
- Crohn’s disease can impact any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from mouth to anus.
While the exact cause remains unclear, a compromised immune system is believed to play a significant role.
Key IBD Facts and Statistics
- Approximately 3.1 million adults in the U.S. live with IBD, according to the CDC.
- Over two-thirds of IBD patients are aged 45 or older.
- Initial diagnoses commonly occur between ages 15 and 30.
- A second diagnosis peak happens in adults over 60, accounting for 10-15% of cases.
- Crohn’s disease is more prevalent among females assigned at birth, while ulcerative colitis is slightly more common in males, with variations due to hormonal changes.
- Non-Hispanic white populations have the highest IBD rates, followed by Hispanic groups.
Goals of World IBD Day
World IBD Day aims to enhance the quality of life for those affected by raising public awareness and promoting research efforts worldwide. Educational programs and advocacy campaigns occur globally to support this mission.
Established in 2010 during Digestive Disease Week, the initiative now spans over 50 countries and five continents, coordinated by the European Federation of Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis Associations (EFCCA) alongside national patient organizations. In the U.S., the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation leads these efforts.
The 2023 theme, continuing from 2022, is “IBD has no age.” EFCCA will launch a survey focusing on the experiences of individuals aged 60 and above, emphasizing care quality and life challenges.
Symbolism: The Purple Ribbon
Supporters of World IBD Day wear purple ribbons, and iconic landmarks worldwide light up in purple to honor the cause.
To request awareness ribbons, contact Luisa Avedano, CEO of EFCCA, at luisa.avedano@efcca.org.
Ways to Get Involved in World IBD Day
Attend or Host an Event
Find local events by reaching out to your nearest Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation chapter or organize your own community gathering. Ideas include:
- Neighborhood walks or runs
- Fundraising tag sales
- Informal educational sessions
The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation offers resources and free educational materials. Contact them at 800-932-2423 or info@crohnscolitisfoundation.org.
Discover global World IBD Day activities to broaden your involvement.
Show Your Support by Wearing Purple
If attending events isn’t possible, wear a purple ribbon throughout the day and spark conversations about IBD. Some choose to dress fully in purple or even adorn their pets with purple bandanas to raise awareness during walks.
Expand Your Knowledge
Deepen your understanding of IBD with trusted online resources or enroll in educational programs.
Recommended Online Resources
- MyIBD Learning by the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation
- IBD information from the CDC
- Family-focused IBD resources from Nationwide Children’s Hospital
Utilize Helpful Apps
Download the We Can’t Wait app to locate nearby restrooms, including those in supportive private businesses. This tool benefits both people with IBD and the general public, featuring a database of over 50,000 restrooms.
Participate in Surveys
Contribute to ongoing research by completing surveys from the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, helping create a more gut-friendly world.
Spread the Word on Social Media
Use hashtags like #IBDhasnoage and #WorldIBDday2023 to share awareness messages and engage others.
Support Through Donations
Financial or in-kind donations help sustain nonprofit programs, research, and patient care. You can specify your contribution’s purpose when donating.
Supporting Loved Ones with IBD
Understand the Condition
IBD is a chronic autoimmune disease distinct from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Recognizing this difference is vital when offering support.
Practice Active Listening
Listening attentively often provides more comfort than unsolicited advice. Remember, your loved one likely understands their condition best.
Show Compassion
IBD flare-ups can disrupt plans unexpectedly. Be patient and supportive if cancellations occur, reassuring your friend or family member that you’re there through thick and thin.
Offer Practical Help
Assist with transportation, meal prep, or caregiving during medical procedures or difficult times.
Mark Your Calendar: IBD Awareness Events
In addition to World IBD Day on May 19, consider these important dates:
- May 6–9: Digestive Disease Week
- May 29: World Digestive Health Day
- November: IBD Awareness Month (Canada)
- December 1–7: Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week
Final Thoughts
World IBD Day is a powerful occasion to unite in support of those living with inflammatory bowel disease. Simple actions like wearing purple, sharing knowledge, and listening to experiences make a meaningful difference.
By engaging with this global movement, you contribute to greater awareness, improved care, and hope for a future cure.
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