CHANDIGARH, 19.05.25-PGIMER’s Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, organized a significant Patient Awareness Session on Paediatric IBD, to mark World Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Day. The purpose was to raise awareness about the increasing incidence of IBD among Indian children, dispel prevalent myths, and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis during the “window of opportunity” and comprehensive management of this chronic, often debilitating condition.

During the Session, Dr. Sadhna Lal, Prof. & Head, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, PGIMER highlighted the growing prevalence of paediatric IBD in India, noting that factors such as dietary changes, urban lifestyles, and antibiotic and acid suppressant overuse may have contributed significantly to this rise. She expressed concern over the widespread misinformation about the disease, which can hinder timely treatment and proper care. “IBD in children is no longer rare. Factors like dietary changes, urban lifestyles, and the overuse of antibiotics have contributed to this growing burden. What’s deeply concerning is the amount of misinformation in public discourse,” she said.

Emphasizing the vital role of public healthcare in combating misinformation and ensuring early diagnosis, Dr Lal said, “If public-sector research and education don’t step in, patients fall prey to half-truths and delayed treatments. In paediatric IBD, timely diagnosis, tailored treatment, and informed choices are crucial — not just for disease control but also for a child's growth, schooling, and social well-being and integration as a productive individual,” she stated.