Leading Experts in Inflammatory Bowel Disease to Speak at European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation Congress

Posted on: 23 February 2011

The 6th Congress of the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation of which the Dean of Health Sciences, Professor Colm Ó ‘Moráin, is a founding member will take place in the Convention Centre in Dublin this week (23-25th February).  The medical conference has attracted an estimated 4,000 people, with delegates from over 75 countries ? a 30% increase on last year’s attendance.  The congress will focus on the latest research, therapies and procedures for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

“Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis are diseases that we diagnose in young people between the ages of 25 and 40 years of age but also in people of any age.  There are over 15,000 sufferers in Ireland.  The incidence of the disease has increased over the last 20 years.  The cause is unknown.  There is an increased awareness of the disease and in new treatments, it is hoped that this interest will result in finding the cause and ultimately a permanent cure,” explained Professor Ó ‘Moráin who is delighted with the increased support for the Congress and that Dublin was chosen to host it with its implications for the economy. “This is also an opportunity for Trinity College maintain its prominence in clinical translational research,” added Professor Ó ‘Moráin.

The European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation will also celebrate its 10th anniversary in Dublin.  Dublin was chosen as a venue as it is the tercentenary of the Trinity Medical School.  A celebratory evening to mark the occasion will be held in Trinity’s Long Room and the Dining Hall of Trinity College on Wednesday 23rd February.