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Crohn's Disease

Discover the STARSCAPE Studies, a study program for people affected by moderate to severe CD

The STARSCAPE Studies are clinical trials evaluating the effectiveness and safety of an investigational study drug to see if it can treat moderately to severely active Crohn’s disease (CD).

The studies include several parts. In STARSCAPE-1, you may receive the investigational study drug or a placebo for 12 to 24 weeks. Depending on your response, you may move on to STARSCAPE-2, a maintenance part for 40 weeks. At the end, everyone may join the open-labeled extension part and continue receiving the investigational study drug.

You may be eligible for the STARSCAPE Studies if you:

• Are 18 years or older (or at least 16 in some countries).

• Have been diagnosed with moderate to severe CD at least 3 months ago that is currently active.

• Have frequent diarrhea and/or abdominal pain.

• Have not responded well to previous CD treatments or could not tolerate them.

• Are willing to follow all study procedures: site visits, colonoscopies, and symptom tracking.

GOOD TO KNOW

Clinical trials are always voluntary and free of charge. You may withdraw at any time. Additional eligibility requirements apply. If you have questions or need more information, speak to your study doctor.

Terms & Conditions

What Is Crohn’s Disease and How Does It Affect People?

Crohn’s disease is a long-term health condition that affects the digestive system, which is responsible for processing the food we eat. It is an inflammatory disease, meaning it causes swelling, irritation, and damage to the intestines. Although it can appear at any age, it is most often diagnosed in young adults.

One important thing to understand about Crohn’s disease is that it is not contagious and it is not caused by anything a person did wrong. It is a complex condition influenced by the immune system, genetics, and environmental factors. In simple terms, the body’s defense system mistakenly attacks the digestive tract, causing inflammation.

Crohn’s disease can affect different parts of the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus, but it most commonly affects the small intestine and the large intestine. The inflammation does not always appear in a continuous pattern, meaning healthy sections of intestine may exist between inflamed areas. This is one reason why symptoms can vary widely from person to person.

Common Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

People living with Crohn’s disease may experience a wide range of symptoms. Some of the most common include abdominal pain, ongoing diarrhea, extreme fatigue, weight loss, and loss of appetite. In some cases, individuals may also experience fever, anemia, or intestinal bleeding. Symptoms can be mild for some people and more severe for others.

Another important aspect of Crohn’s disease is that it often occurs in flares, which are periods when symptoms worsen, followed by times when the person feels better or has few symptoms. This unpredictable pattern can make daily life challenging and may affect work, school, and social activities.

How Crohn’s Disease Affects Daily Life

Beyond physical symptoms, Crohn’s disease can have a significant emotional impact. Living with a chronic condition can lead to stress, anxiety, or frustration, especially when symptoms appear without warning. Many people need to plan their daily activities around their energy levels, diet, and access to restrooms.

Diet can also be affected, as certain foods may worsen symptoms during flares. There is no single diet that works for everyone with Crohn’s disease. Over time, and with medical guidance, individuals often learn which foods work best for their bodies.

Is There Treatment for Crohn’s Disease?

Although there is currently no cure, Crohn’s disease can be treated. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, managing symptoms, and helping people maintain the best possible quality of life. With proper medical care, many individuals achieve long periods of remission, meaning their symptoms are well controlled or absent.

Early diagnosis, ongoing medical support, and emotional care play an important role in managing the disease. With the right information and care, people with Crohn’s disease can live full and active lives.

A Final Message

Crohn’s disease may not always be visible, but its effects are real. Understanding what it is and how it affects people helps not only those living with the condition, but also their families and communities. Awareness, compassion, and access to proper care are key to improving quality of life for individuals with Crohn’s disease.