May 23

World Crohn’s and Colitis Day

Join the fight against Crohn's and Colitis on World Crohn's and Colitis Day - support those living with these chronic illnesses and raise awareness!

Yearly Date
May 23
Type
Day
Category
Health

Introduction

Mark your calendars for May 23 because it's World Crohn's and Colitis Day! This day is dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions affect millions of people worldwide, causing chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. But despite their serious nature, there are many inspiring stories of individuals who have successfully managed their IBD and continue to live fulfilling lives. Let's use this special day to show support for those living with IBD and spread positivity and hope for a future free from these diseases.

World Crohn’s and Colitis Day Timeline

1932
Crohn's Disease Named
Dr. Burrill B. Crohn identified and named Crohn's disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease, after studying patients with unusual abdominal symptoms.
1967
First IBD Medication
The FDA approved sulfasalazine, the first medication specifically used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's and Colitis.
1979
National Support Foundation
In this year, The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation was established to provide support and resources to individuals living with these conditions.
2004
Breakthrough In Genetics
Researchers pinpointed the first gene known to be associated with increased risk of developing Crohn's disease, NOD2.
2010
Global Recognition of IBD
World IBD Day was observed for the first time to raise global awareness of inflammatory bowel diseases, thereby helping to reduce stigma and improve quality of life for patients.
2012
Crohn's & Colitis Congress
The first Crohn's & Colitis Congress took place, marking a significant step in collaboration towards a cure and improved patient care.

How to Celebrate World Crohn’s and Colitis Day

1

Join a charity walk or run

Participate in a charity walk or run to raise awareness and funds for Crohn’s and Colitis. You can gather a team and make it a fun group activity.

2

Host a purple-themed party

Purple is the official color for Crohn’s and Colitis awareness. Host a purple-themed party and encourage your guests to wear purple and donate to a charity of your choice.

3

Share your story

Use social media platforms or start a blog to share your personal experience with Crohn’s and Colitis. This can help raise awareness and support for those living with these conditions.

4

Volunteer at a local organization

Find a local organization that supports individuals with Crohn’s and Colitis and offer your time to volunteer. This can be a great way to make a positive impact in your community.

5

Educate yourself and others

Take the time to learn more about Crohn’s and Colitis and share your knowledge with others. You can also distribute informational materials or host a Q&A session to answer any questions people may have about these conditions.

Why World Crohn’s and Colitis Day is Important

A

It raises awareness

World Crohn's and Colitis Day is an important opportunity to educate people about these chronic inflammatory diseases that affect the digestive tract. By spreading awareness, we can help reduce stigma and increase support for those living with Crohn’s and colitis.

B

It provides a sense of community

For those living with Crohn's or colitis, it can often feel isolating and lonely. World Crohn's and Colitis Day brings together individuals from around the world who are fighting the same battle, offering a sense of belonging and understanding.

C

It encourages advocacy and funding for research

On this day, many organizations and individuals raise funds for research towards finding better treatments and a cure for Crohn's and colitis. It also encourages advocacy efforts to improve access to healthcare, reduce discrimination, and advance scientific knowledge on these diseases.

World Crohn’s and Colitis Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
May 23
Tuesday
2024
May 23
Thursday
2025
May 23
Friday
2026
May 23
Saturday
2027
May 23
Sunday