Madurai: Medical experts have issued a warning about a steady increase in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) cases in India, particularly among young adults. They emphasized the critical need for early recognition, timely specialist care, and access to advanced therapies. The public was urged not to ignore persistent bowel symptoms and to seek early medical evaluation.
IBD No Longer Rare in India
At an event held on Saturday, Dr. PL Alagammai, senior consultant in medical gastroenterology at Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital, stated that IBD is no longer considered rare in India. IBD is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the digestive tract, primarily including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. These conditions cause persistent inflammation, leading to ulcers, bleeding, weight loss, anemia, intestinal narrowing, fistulae, and abscesses.
Common Symptoms and Misdiagnosis
These chronic intestinal disorders commonly present with persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood in stools, weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue, fever, and recurrent intestinal complaints. Some patients also develop joint pain, skin lesions, eye inflammation, or liver-related disorders. Because these symptoms are frequently mistaken for common infections, piles, irritable bowel syndrome, or intestinal tuberculosis, diagnosis is often delayed for months or even years.
Factors Behind Rising Cases
Dr. Alagammai noted that the rise in IBD cases is believed to be associated with rapid urbanization, changing dietary patterns, reduced microbial diversity, antibiotic exposure, pollution, stress, sedentary lifestyles, and improved detection methods. Diets rich in ultra-processed foods, refined carbohydrates, unhealthy fats, and low fiber are also thought to alter the gut microbiome and contribute to intestinal inflammation.
Young Adults and Urban Residents Most Affected
Dr. Mohan, senior consultant and head of surgical gastroenterology, remarked, "In recent years, we have observed a clear increase in newly diagnosed cases, particularly among young adults and urban residents." He stressed the importance of early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care to manage the disease effectively and improve patients' quality of life.
Experts recommend that individuals experiencing persistent gastrointestinal symptoms consult a gastroenterologist promptly. With timely intervention, including medications, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases surgery, patients can achieve better outcomes and prevent complications.
