Crohn's disease is an autoimmune disease, which causes the body's immune system to begin attacking healthy cells in your gastrointestinal tract, causing inflammation and having an effect on all layers of the intestinal wall. [1] Crohn's disease usually affects the small intestine, causing the growth of sores, skin tags, and ulcers. The number of young people and children diagnosed with Crohn's disease is increasing significantly, becoming one of the most common genetic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), with more than 61,000 Australians aged 15 to 30 suffering inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn's disease. 2] and this is why it is an important health issue for Australian youth and affects the health and human development of individuals. Crohn's disease can be diagnosed at any age, but is most likely between the ages of 15 and 40 and is more common in women. males. Each year, approximately 776 new cases of people are diagnosed with Crohn's disease. Research suggests that the prevalence of Crohn's disease will increase by 20% by 2020. The disability burden for young people living with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis is comparable to that of rheumatoid arthritis, severe asthma or arm amputation. Disability from Crohn's disease is more serious than living with type 1 diabetes or epilepsy. And every year, Crohn's disease is more common than epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema and schizophrenia. [3] Crohn's disease is a genetic disorder that does not peacefully affect a certain population of young people. Young people with Crohn's disease can perform activities such as daily tasks, exercise, and incidental physical activity like walking to and from school without feeling exhausted. ..... middle of article ......health survey I surveyed 10 individuals, men and women, aged 14 to 50+, about their understanding of Crohn's disease. It was evident that just over half knew what the disease was and that all 10 individuals were aware of the symptoms. This shows that people of all ages have a good understanding, although Crohn's disease is not a well-known disease, but it is likely that more people should know about it because it is a growing disease. Eight in ten people know someone who has been diagnosed with Crohn's disease, which could explain why so many of those surveyed knew about it. 9 out of 10 people want more information about the disease because they see it as an important aspect. This means there should be more people advocating and raising awareness about Crohn's disease for everyone who wants to expand their knowledge..