Colitis & Crohn’s Foundation launches Tamil Nadu chapter to boost IBD awareness

The Colitis & Crohn’s Foundation of India (CCFI) has launched its Tamil Nadu chapter, with a focus on improving awareness, early diagnosis, and patient support for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

IBD is a chronic condition characterised by persistent inflammation of the digestive tract, often leading to fatigue, abdominal pain, reduced physical functioning, and psychological distress. It includes ulcerative colitis, which affects the large intestine and rectum, and Crohn’s disease, which can involve any part of the gastrointestinal tract.

Speaking at the launch, P. Piramanayagam, consultant, Department of Medical Gastroenterology, Apollo Hospitals, said treatment typically involves medication to control inflammation, with short-term steroid use in some cases, and surgery reserved for severe disease.

K.R. Palaniswamy, convenor of the Tamil Nadu chapter, said IBD is often mistaken for minor digestive issues. “It is a serious lifelong condition requiring early recognition and sustained management. India has one of the highest IBD burdens in South and Southeast Asia, with rising cases, particularly in urban areas,” he said.

The chapter will undertake public awareness campaigns on symptoms such as persistent diarrhoea, blood in stools, abdominal pain, and fatigue. It also plans to promote research, continuing medical education, and patient support networks to reduce stigma.