Crohn’s & Colitis Awareness Week 1-7 December 2025

About Crohn’s & Colitis Awareness Week

Every year, Crohn’s & Colitis Awareness Week takes place from 1–7 December.
In 2025, we join communities across the UK in recognising the challenges faced by people living with IBD and promoting better awareness of these lifelong conditions.

Understanding Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are long-term inflammatory conditions of the digestive system. Symptoms can vary, but often include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, and unintentional weight changes. Many people experience cycles of flare-ups followed by periods of remission.

Although the exact causes are not fully understood, research points to a combination of genetic factors, immune response, and environmental influences. With the right treatment and support, many people living with IBD can manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life.

Raising Awareness of Symptoms, Triggers, and the Importance of Early Diagnosis

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis – collectively known as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD affect hundreds of thousands of people, yet many continue to suffer in silence due to stigma, uncertainty, or delays in diagnosis. Crohn’s & Colitis Awareness Week (December 1–7) is an important opportunity to highlight the realities of living with IBD and to empower people to recognise the signs early.

Recognising Symptoms

Symptoms of Crohn’s and Colitis can vary widely and often come and go, which sometimes leads people to dismiss them. Key symptoms may include:

• Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
• Frequent diarrhoea, sometimes with blood or mucus
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chronic fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Urgency or frequent need to use the bathroom
• Fever or generalised malaise
• Joint pain or skin issues in some cases

Because these symptoms overlap with other digestive disorders, awareness is essential. Knowing what’s typical—and what isn’t—helps people seek help sooner.

Reliable Information and Support in the UK

Finding trustworthy information can make a huge difference for patients and families.
For clear, reliable guidance, we encourage patients to visit trusted UK organisations such as:

• Crohn’s & Colitis UK – offering evidence-based information, patient stories, practical tools, and community support
• NHS resources on inflammatory bowel disease
• Online Support Groups: Social media platforms like Facebook have numerous dedicated Crohn’s disease support groups. These online communities are a great way to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and offer encouragement. These sources provide accessible, up-to-date information designed to help patients understand their condition and feel more confident in managing it.

These sources provide accessible, up-to-date information designed to help patients understand their condition and feel more confident in managing it.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Early diagnosis of Crohn’s and Colitis can greatly improve long-term outcomes. Prompt medical care helps:

• Prevent complications such as strictures or inflammation spreading
• Reduce the physical and emotional burden of unmanaged symptoms
• Allow earlier access to effective treatments and support services
• Improve overall quality of life

No one should have to live with debilitating digestive symptoms or feel alone when navigating them. Awareness Week is a reminder that understanding the signs and taking action early can change a person’s health journey for the better.

How We Support Patients at Our Hospital

We know that living with IBD can feel overwhelming at times — physically, emotionally, and socially. Our team is here to offer understanding, reassurance, and specialist care every step of the way.