World IBD Day 2025: PerPrev-CID Shines a Light on Invisible Illnesses

On 19 May 2025, the global community came together to mark World IBD Day, an annual initiative raising awareness of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These chronic, immune-mediated conditions affect millions of people worldwide and often go unseen, despite their significant impact on daily life.

This year’s theme, “IBD Has No Borders: Breaking Taboos, Talking About It”, placed the spotlight on the importance of open and stigma-free conversations about bowel health. Many people living with IBD still face taboos and discomfort when talking about their symptoms – a silence that can delay diagnosis, increase isolation, and negatively affect quality of life.

Standing with the IBD Community

At PerPrev-CID, we are committed to changing this narrative. IBD is one of the core conditions addressed by our project, alongside rheumatoid arthritis. Our goal is to improve early detection and personalised prevention through close collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and people living with chronic inflammatory diseases. To mark World IBD Day 2025, we raised flags at our partner institution Kiel University – a symbolic act of solidarity that echoed across Europe and beyond. The colour purple represents visibility, dignity, and support for those whose struggles are often invisible.

Patient Voices at the Centre

With the support of our partner, the European Federation of Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis Associations (EFCCA), which coordinated World IBD Day, people living with IBD are not only represented but actively engaged in the research process. Their insights help us shape better studies, develop more relevant materials, and focus on what truly matters in real life. As part of this year’s awareness efforts, EFCCA patient representatives shared their personal reflections on the power of speaking openly about IBD with PerPrev-CID. Many expressed how being honest about their condition helped them feel more empowered, less alone, and more in control of their lives – a strong reminder of why open conversations are so vital. Explore some highlights of our activities and messages below.

Thank you to everyone involved in raising awareness on World IBD Day!