Incidence and prevalence rates and trends of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in China remain largely unknown.
This study aimed to estimate the nationwide prevalence and incidence of IBD and identify its noticeable trends in China between 2013 and 2016.
We conducted a population-based analysis using data from the National Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance database. Patients with at least three claims of IBD diagnosis were identified. A Joinpoint regression model was used to analyze the annual percent change (APC) of the age-standardized incidence and prevalence.
The age-standardized prevalence of Crohn's disease (CD) increased from 1.59/100,000 in 2013 to 3.39/100,000 (
The incidence and prevalence of IBD in most urban regions in China had an emerging trend over the study period, and an east-to-west gradient was observed, which indicated a greater burden in eastern China. Efforts to improve prevention strategies and promote awareness of IBD are needed, particularly in young men who are at higher risk for CD.