Shedding light on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) could branch out into scientific and awareness aspects, said Dr. Ahmad Al-Fadhli, head of Kuwait Gastroenterology Association on Saturday.
His remarks came in the opening of a specialized event celebrating World IBD Day; marked annually on May 19.
“One of the most noteworthy features of IBD, is that it targets young people, and here the awareness part stands out, thus holding this yearly event. This gathering provides an opportunity for patients and the public alike to interact with IBD professionals,” he told attendees.
IBD is a chronic autoimmune group of disorders that cause two types of inflammation: Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis (UC).
Dr. Mariam Al-Ali, a gastrologist and dietitian, said that in order to lessen symptoms of active IBD patients, they must avoid consuming insoluble fibre foods, saturated fats (fried food), and lactose (dairy products).
Meanwhile, colorectal surgeon Ali Al-Saffar told the audience that surgical intervention mainly would help – in certain cases; eradicate severe complications, test out medications’ efficiency, and to maintain small intestine length.
Crohn’s fighter Shorouq Al-Saeed was officially diagnosed in 1992. Describing her childhood as a bit different “constricted” than her peers, as her family was her main support system.” She had her first surgery at the tender age of seven.
“I’ve gone through rough times, battling the disease on physical and emotional levels. In spite of it all, I didn’t succumb, living a normal life as much as I can,” she said.
On IBD’s obscure nature, when it comes to diagnosis, treatment methods and even research, Dr. Al-Fadhli told KUNA that treatment used to be symptoms-based only. “Now, we are working to attempt to restore mechanism of the colon.
“That in parallel with the psychological aspect of not being shy about the disease. Shorouq is a champion for sharing her story in public and on social media.” On unauthenticated reports that Crohn’s could disappear after eight years of remission, Dr. Al-Fadhli said Crohn’s is a “chronic” disease that would stay for life.
“It’s in the blood stream not only in the bowel. And medication would certainly help control the disease.” On his part, Dr. Mohammad Shehab, Consultant in internal medicine, gastroenterology and hepatology, told KUNA that medications with promising results are expected to be available soon, mainly oral (tablets) rather than injection or IV fluids.
Source: Kuwait News Agency