EFCCA - European Federation of Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis Associations

The European Federation of Crohn's & Ulcerative Colitis Associations is an umbrella organisation representing national patients’ associations from 25 European countries.

Following the identification of IBD as a recognisable chronic illness, specific self-help groups began to appear cross Europe. By the mid 1980s, most of the groups which now constitute the European National Associations for Crohn's and Colitis patients had been formed. Further development of these organisations has reflected the growth of IBD diagnosis, the increasing visibility of the benefits of self-help associations and their increasing roles.

In order to improve links and collaboration between patients and medical care professionals, EFCCA is also assisted by a Europe-wide team of eminent Medical Patrons.
Additionally, IBD is included within the group of “rare diseases” acknowledged by the European Commission. This choice highlights the importance of joining forces and, once again, EFCCA and its national members play an important role in order to catch the eye not only of the EU institutions, but also of EU citizens and decision makers both at a national and transnational level.

EFCCA’s main objective is to improve the well-being of people with IBD of all ages, diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).