Background: Globally, prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is around 396 cases per 105
inhabitants.
However, it has been considered to have low incidence and prevalence in Hispanic populations. To date
there is little published epidemiological information on IBD in South America.
Objectives: Estimate the prevalence of IBD in an adult population affiliated to an EPS in the city of
Cartagena, Colombia.
Methods: All patients with confirmed IBD who received medical care in COOMEVA EPS up until June 01,
2006 were identified through reviewing their medical records. Prevalence was estimated in relation to the over
age 15 patient population enrolled in the EPS at the time of data collection.
Results: 26 patients with IBD were the basis for calculating prevalence in our population. Six individuals
had CD and 20 were diagnosed with UC. The estimated overall prevalence of IBD was 29 x 105
(95% CI:
17-40).
Conclusion: IBD still seems to be a rare disease in South America. Its incidence may be increasing according
to recent data from other Hispanic communities. Our results are consistent with studies in other
populations where IBD is an emerging disease.