What is IBD?

IBD stands for
​inflammatory bowel disease which
consists of Crohn's Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC)



​ 1 in 4 patients diagnosed are under 20 years old


In the United states, UC affects:
500,000 people

is the cause OF: 
 250,000 doctor visits &
30,000 hospitalizations Each year
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by inflammation specifically in the large intestine, affecting the rectum and colon. This inflammation leads to the development of ulcers on the innermost lining of the large intestine. Symptoms of UC can vary in severity, with approximately half of patients experiencing mild manifestations such as:
  • Increased urgency and looseness of bowel movements
  • Persistent diarrhea accompanied by abdominal pain and the presence of blood in the stool
  • Bloody stools
  • Abdominal cramping
  • Loss of appetite
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) marked by inflammation within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. While it can affect any part of the GI tract from mouth to anus, it frequently manifests in the ileum, where the small intestine connects with the colon. Symptoms associated with GI tract inflammation include:
  • Persistent diarrhea
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Urgent need to evacuate bowels
  • Abdominal cramps and pain
  • Sensation of incomplete bowel movements
  • Constipation

Crohn's Disease

  • Inflammation can emerge throughout the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, spanning from the mouth to the anus.
  • It typically manifests predominantly at the terminal end of the small intestine.
  • The condition may manifest in non-contiguous patches within the GI tract.
  • In severe cases, inflammation can extend throughout the entire thickness of the bowel wall.
  • Approximately 67% of individuals in remission will experience at least one relapse within the subsequent five years.

Ulcerative Colitis

  • Confined to the large intestine, comprising the colon and rectum.
  • Manifests in the rectum and colon, affecting either a segment or the entirety of the colon.
  • Inflammation typically presents in a continuous pattern throughout the affected area.
  • The inflammatory response primarily affects the innermost lining of the intestine.
  • Approximately 30% of individuals in remission may encounter a relapse within the subsequent year.

Global incidence of Inflamatory Bowel Disease

Approximately 1.4 Individuals in the united states are affected by IBD

Any and all Genders are affected equally

IBD can occur at anytime during a lifetime

While the cause and cure for inflammatory bowel disease remain elusive, the spectrum of pain and symptoms can vary from mild to severe. Here, the I3 team steps in. We've taken a proactive approach to research by enrolling potential participants to build a comprehensive database of IBD patients within the UPHS health system. Furthermore, we're actively investigating the immunological factors implicated in the pathogenesis of IBD. However, the cornerstone of our endeavor lies in the willingness of patients to contribute, which propels us closer to our collective goal.