We Need to Act Today
The number of people in Canada living with Crohn’s or colitis is growing relentlessly:
342,000
in 2024, close to 0.9% of the population
467,000
in 2034, almost 1% of the population
The number of those being diagnosed is also increasing:
12,000
in 2024, 1 every 44 minutes
13,500
in 2034, 1 every 39 minutes
Of particular concern is the increase in diagnoses in children, especially those under the age of 6. Canada has one of the highest rates of pediatric Crohn’s and colitis in the world. Traditionally, Crohn’s or colitis is diagnosed between the ages of 20-30.
More important information about Crohn’s and colitis in Canada
Children
- More extensive disease
- Limited treatment options
- Worse mental health outcomes – children more than twice as likely to have psychiatric disorders than general population
- Challenging transition to adult care
Women
- Experience more fragmented care
- Report more mental health concerns
- Have higher non-health care system expenses due to higher rates of disability
Seniors
- Fastest growing group as people with Crohn’s and colitis are living longer due to better therapies, and population is aging
Other diseases in those with Crohn’s and colitis
- Colorectal cancer – 3rd most common type of cancer in Canada
- 1.5 times more frequent than in general population
- 15% of related deaths
- Psychiatric disorders – more common among those with Crohn’s or colitis
- 21% have clinical anxiety
- 15% have clinical depression
Groups facing barriers to care have needs that are not well met
- Low socioeconomic status
- Living in rural, remote and Northern communities
- Indigenous people
Reasons for hope
- New, better treatments being developed – especially drugs
- Virtual care growing and welcomed – especially by those who live far from specialists