Changing Patterns in the Epidemiology of Crohn Disease

Abstract

Crohn disease is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the alimentary tract. It is an increasingly global health concern, with recent data indicating rising rates across many countries in the world, along with a growing prevalence in childhood. Numerous reports indicate that Crohn disease is no longer confined to Western countries, with many reports of diagnosis in other regions including less developed nations. Changes in dietary patterns, along with other environmental factors, appear to account for these recent changes in the patterns of Crohn disease epidemiology. The objective of this work was to review current available literature concerning the epidemiology of Crohn disease and to consider the possible roles of environmental factors that may be implicated in these changing patterns. Widespread data indicates increasing incidence of Crohn disease in many countries across the world. The reasons for these rapid changes in the epidemiology of Crohn disease are not clearly understood. However, environmental changes appear to the most important factors for these recent changes.