World IBD Day is observed every year on May 19 to raise awareness about inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and to support millions of people living with these chronic conditions worldwide.
The global awareness campaign unites patient organisations, healthcare professionals and advocacy groups across more than 50 countries on five continents.
World IBD Day is coordinated by the International Federation of Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis Associations (IFCCA), which launched the initiative in 2010 during Digestive Disease Week in the United States.
According to organisers, over 120 landmarks worldwide participated in awareness campaigns this year by lighting up in purple — the symbolic colour associated with IBD awareness.
Inflammatory bowel disease refers to chronic disorders that cause inflammation in the digestive tract, with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis being the most common forms. Symptoms often include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, weight loss and digestive complications that can significantly affect daily life.
Health experts estimate that nearly 10 million people globally live with IBD.
The purple ribbon has become an international symbol of awareness, solidarity and support for individuals battling these conditions. Advocacy groups are encouraging people to wear purple and participate in awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and promote understanding.
This year’s awareness activities also focus on improving access to diagnosis, treatment and long-term care, especially in countries where healthcare systems face challenges in providing specialised digestive care.
Organisers have urged governments and healthcare institutions to address what they describe as the “standard of care gap” in IBD treatment globally.
Medical experts say early diagnosis, lifestyle management, regular monitoring and proper medication can help many patients manage the condition effectively and improve quality of life.