World IBD Day 2021

On World IBD every year, patient organisations come together from all over the globe to raise awareness of Crohn’s disease & Colitis. Guts UK is proud to fund 11 current active research projects into Crohn’s & Colitis.

What is IBD?

Crohn’s disease and Colitis (often ulcerative or microscopic) are referred to as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Inflammatory Bowel Disease is different to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which can cause similar symptoms but does not involve inflammation and is generally less serve.

The rise in the young

Research shows there is a rise in young people being diagnosed with IBD. 1 in 4 diagnosed with Crohn’s disease is in a person under 18 years of age. The peak age of incidence for Ulcerative Colitis is between 15-25 years old with a smaller peak occurring between the age of 55 and 65 years old.

Alicia’s Story:

Alicia decided to share her journey with Ulcerative Colitis – click here to read her whole story.

“I’m a firm believer that awareness is key to a cure. It’s also a key to letting people know that you aren’t alone. Charities such as Guts UK enable not only this but also research & projects. Research that could get someone diagnosed quicker. Because the earlier your diagnosed the quicker it is to adapt and take control.”

What research is Guts UK funding into IBD?

We currently have 11 active research projects into IBD. Our most recent is Professor Christer Hogstrand’s research into ‘Leaky gut syndrome’ with Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

We all have cells on the inside layer of our bowel. These cells are tightly bonded together as a seal to act as a barrier against harmful bacteria or other harmful agents. Unfortunately, with ‘leaky gut’ syndrome these tight bonds become looser and the bowel becomes more porous (meaning liquid can pass through easier).

Prof. Hogstrand and his team hope to fully understand how these tight bonds in the bowel develop, this research could lead to a new way to control and prevent ‘leaky gut’.

You can read more about Prof. Hogstrand’s research as well as our other active IBD research here.

How can you help?

• Donate: Help us to continue to fund life-changing research by donating today.
• Tell a friend: 51% of people delay seeking advice for their symptoms for over 6 months! By breaking the stigma, people will become more knowledge about red flags for all digestive diseases and get the help they need.
• Share far & wide: Scroll to the bottom of this article and share on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn etc.
• Fundraise for us: We love to welcome new fundraisers to our community! Use your talents, whether that be running, walking, baking, crafts etc. We love to chat to our fundraisers.
• Share your story: Help us to help others. If you feel inspired by Alicia’s bravery in sharing her story – reach out to us to share your experience with IBD.