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Review
. 2022 Dec;10(10):1113-1120.
doi: 10.1002/ueg2.12317. Epub 2022 Oct 17.

Implications of the changing epidemiology of inflammatory bowel disease in a changing world

Manasi Agrawal  1   2 , Tine Jess  1   3
Affiliations
Review

Implications of the changing epidemiology of inflammatory bowel disease in a changing world

Manasi Agrawal et al. United European Gastroenterol J. 2022 Dec.

Abstract

The epidemiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has undergone considerable shifts since its emergence in the Western world over a century ago, especially in the last few decades, with increasing global burden of disease. IBD incidence continues to rise in developed countries in all age groups which is contributing to compounding prevalence. Further, IBD incidence is rising sharply in Asia and other recently developed and developing countries. In this review, we discuss the implications of changing trends of IBD epidemiology. First, changing patterns provide insights into IBD causes, as they occur concurrent with shifts in the environment, cultures, and attitudes. Understanding the impact of the environment on IBD risk can help towards prediction and prevention strategies. Second, we must prepare healthcare systems for the rising burden of IBD and address it at various levels towards improving outcomes and health, overall.

Keywords: Crohn's disease; epidemiology; inflammatory bowel disease; prevention; ulcerative colitis.

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Conflict of interest statement

The corresponding author confirms on behalf of all authors that there have been no involvements that might raise the question of bias in the work reported or in the conclusions, implications, or opinions stated. MA reports no conflict of interest. TJ reports no conflict of interest.

Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
Environmental, lifestyle and health‐related risk factors implicated in IBD risk. IBD, inflammatory bowel disease
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2
Levels of IBD prevention. IBD, inflammatory bowel disease
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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