Advances in Inflammatory Bowel Disease management discussed at IBD Nexus Summit

A gastrointestinal disease characterised by chronic inflammation; Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is becoming increasingly prevalent in the Middle East. Types of IBD, including Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis, are marked by inflammation of the digestive tract. Often difficult to diagnose due to overlapping symptoms with other common gastrointestinal conditions, IBD typically presents with persistent symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue, significantly affecting both the physical and emotional wellbeing of patients.

At the IBD Nexus Summit 2025, Dr Heba Al-Farhan, Consultant Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist – Advanced IBD Specialist, among the many distinguished healthcare professionals present, discussed the challenges IBD patients face, highlighting that one of the most significant issues is obtaining an accurate diagnosis. Diagnosing IBD often consists of a comprehensive review of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, imaging studies, and endoscopy procedures.

However, Dr Al-Farhan also highlighted that several barriers may complicate this process. This includes limited access to gastroenterologists and IBD specialists, varying levels of awareness about IBD among healthcare providers, the availability and accessibility of certain medications, as well as patient hesitation to discuss their symptoms.

Dr Al-Farhan spotlighted the importance of breakthroughs in intestinal ultrasounds (IUS), a non-invasive and patient-friendly method for diagnosing and monitoring IBD. Non-invasive, IUS offers real-time imaging of the intestines allowing healthcare professionals to visualiSe the bowel wall and surrounding structures, enabling practitioners to assess inflammation severity, detect complications such as strictures, fistulas, or abscesses, and monitor treatment responses more effectively. 

Since the process does not use radiation, this makes it a safer, more patient friendly option, particularly for pregnant women and children who need frequent monitoring. Research shows that use of IUS can lead to improved clinical outcomes.

Dr Al-Farhan also highlighted major advances in IBD management. The development of biologics and targeted therapies has transformed the way IBD is managed. These medications are designed to specifically target pathways involved in inflammation, providing more effective and personalised treatment options with fewer side effects.

Beyond medical innovations, experts at the IBD Nexus Summit 2025 underscored the need for a holistic approach to IBD management that integrates mental health and psychosocial support into treatment plans. Addressing mental health is critical, as anxiety and depression are common among patients with chronic diseases such as IBD. By promoting emotional well-being alongside physical health, health care providers can improve the overall quality of life for IBD patients.

Looking to the future, the outlook for IBD patients in the region is promising. According to Dr Al-Farhan, advances in diagnosis and treatment, combined with a growing recognition of patients' holistic needs, are driving innovative, patient-centric care. Moreover, she emphasised that collaboration among healthcare professionals — gastroenterologists, dieticians, psychologists, and others — is helping develop personalised treatment plans that address both physical and mental well-being.

However, there is still progress to be made. Bridging the gaps in diagnosis and treatment requires continuous efforts to raise awareness and improve access to specialized care. This requires greater collaboration between researchers, healthcare practitioners, and patient advocacy groups to promote a deeper understanding of the disease and evolving patient needs.

By focusing on personalised medicine, leveraging technological advancements, and integrating mental health support, we can create a more inclusive and effective healthcare ecosystem — ultimately transforming the lives of those living with IBD.