What Is “Inflammatory Bowel Disease” & How Can It Be Treated?

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, which are usually grouped together as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Despite many researches, the etiology is still unknown, but it is believed that IBD is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that interact with the immunological system. Many people worldwide (around 4 million) suffer from a form IBD and the incidence of Crohn's disease is still increasing. Aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, biologic medicines reduce the inflammation, relieve symptoms, prevent flare-ups, but new, more effective drugs with smaller amount of side effects are wanted and examined.