The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) released updated health maintenance guidelines for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), urging gastroenterologists to take a proactive role in vaccines, cancer screenings, bone health, smoking cessation, and mental health.
Dr. Francis Farraye of Mayo Clinic emphasized that many IBD patients see their GI providers as primary care, especially younger patients on immunosuppressive therapies. The guideline highlights the importance of timely vaccines like Shingrix, RSV, and pneumococcal, dermatologic and cervical cancer screening, osteoporosis monitoring, and annual mental health evaluations.
The update reflects a growing recognition that GI specialists must lead coordinated care efforts to improve long-term outcomes for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis patients.