In this global pandemic, IBD patients and their healthcare providers from around the world share similar fears and concerns about their condition. The SECURE-IBD database works across borders to learn how factors such as age, IBD treatments, and the presence of other conditions impact COVID outcomes. The international collaboration of SECURE-IBD is rapidly providing answers to the most important question from patients and providers.
What have we learned so far? IBD clinicians from around the world have reported a total of 1074 cases of confirmed COVID-19 in IBD patients. We have learned that older age and other health conditions are the major drivers of more severe COVID-19 and death. Oral steroid use continues to be the largest medication-associated risk factor. Many IBD medications, including anti-TNF biologics and others, appear to be safe. More detailed information is publicly available at www.covidibd.org.