THE pIBD DIGEST

In this episode of THE PIBD Digest, we travel to Tokyo for an inspiring and uplifting conversation with Professor Katsuhiro Arai or “Sunny” —a paediatric gastroenterologist whose warmth is as striking as his scientific expertise. Sunny is also President-Elect of the Asia Pacific Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, and Chair of its Scientific Committee. With trademark enthusiasm and infectious positivity, Sunny shares insights into paediatric inflammatory bowel disease in Japan, including the national IBD registry, emerging PIBD trends, and how data is shaping better care for children. What really stands out is Sunny’s deep passion for the psychological wellbeing of patients and their families—reminding us that caring for children with IBD means supporting hearts and minds, not just guts. Full of wisdom, and that unmistakable ‘Sunny’ sparkle, this episode is a joyful reminder that compassion and connection are just as powerful as medicine.

In this episode of THE pIBD DIGEST, we pack our virtual bags and head to Saudi Arabia to explore the evolving landscape of paediatric IBD. Our guide is Dr Ali Zaidan, paediatric gastroenterologist from Jeddah, who gives us an honest, practical view of what pIBD really looks like in day to day clinical practice. We talk about some uniquely important regional factors, including consanguinity and its impact on the IBD spectrum, and hear about the impressive immune dysregulation programme developed in collaboration with Boston Children’s Hospital. Dr Zaidan also shares insights from the structured paediatric GI fellowship programme he directs, alongside his pioneering work in education and training in PIBD. Thought provoking, informative, and refreshingly grounded, this episode reminds us that while PIBD may present differently across regions, curiosity, collaboration (and good conversations) are very much universal.

In Part 2 of our BSPGHAN IBD series, we’re joined by Dr Christian Selinger, adult gastroenterologist from Leeds, who paints a rather lovely picture of paediatric IBD care—while also gently bursting the bubble that, in several domains, we still have plenty to learn from our adult IBD colleagues. In the second half of the episode, Dr Aaron Bancil from The Royal London Hospital takes us into the world of dietary intervention in IBD, offering a glimpse into the low emulsifier diet being explored as part of the ADDapt trial. Food for thought—cleverly emulsified!

Straight from the halls of BSPGHAN Leeds 2026—where we expertly (and entirely coincidentally) “borrowed” two outstanding paediatric gastroenterologists from the conference floor—we bring you the highlights you meant to catch… but didn’t. In part one of this two episode series, we lightly ambush Dr Neil Chanchlani and Dr Rebecca Little for a rapid-fire debrief (purely in the name of education, of course). Dr Chanchlani breaks down the ECCO ESPGHAN guidelines, translating them into something far more digestible than post conference PowerPoint fatigue. Meanwhile, Dr Little tackles a big issue—also known as a significant gap in UK IBD standards—leaving plenty to reflect on. Think of this as your conference catch up, minus the badge, the tote bag, and the aggressively strong coffee. Press play and pretend you were there all along.

In this episode, our globetrotting gut-adventures continue—virtual passports in hand—as we touch down in Malaysia. Joining us is Dr Kee Seang Chew, who guides us through the evolving landscape of paediatric IBD: the emerging trends, current treatment approaches, and the very real challenges faced by clinicians and families on the ground. As we zoom out for a wider view, Dr Chew offers valuable insight into the pIBD experience in Malaysia. He highlights key barriers that persist across the country—unequal access to advanced care, difficulties in sustaining long term treatment, and the ongoing struggle for adequate resources and support. We wrap up on a reflective note, as Dr Coelho shares his poem “We Bicker, We Mourn”—a heartfelt tribute to the NHS: a system that may creak, groan, and occasionally argue with itself, but still shows up when it matters most.

In this second episode of our two-part series with Professor Dan Turner, hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell wade bravely back into the murky waters of advanced combination therapy in IBD. This is uncharted territory—where the evidence is emerging, the decisions are nuanced, and the stakes are high. Because, as in life, not every partnership stands the test of time. Some combinations thrive, others fizzle—and figuring out which is which is where the real art (and science) lies. So how do you choose the right partner? When do you commit? And when is it time to call it quits? Join us as we explore the realities, risks, and evolving role of pairing biologics (and biologics with small molecules) in the quest for better patient outcomes.

In this special anniversary episode of the PIBD Digest Podcast, we’re delighted to welcome global IBD leader Dan Turner for an engaging and wide-ranging conversation. We explore how a tasty and healthy diet can play a meaningful role in managing IBD—because good medicine doesn’t always have to taste bad. Along the way, we zoom out to discuss the bigger picture of modern IBD care, including evolving treatment strategies and advanced therapies. From nutrition to cutting-edge therapeutics, this episode is packed with thoughtful reflections, practical insights, and a generous serving of IBD “pearls of wisdom” for clinicians, families, and anyone interested in the future of IBD care.

The exotic IBD world tour rolls on! After touching down in India, hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell hop over (virtually) to the Lion City for the latest episode of THE pIBD DIGEST. They’re joined by Singapore’s very own paediatric IBD expert, Dr James Huang, who delivers a fascinating tour of the pIBD landscape in Singapore. From the practical realities of switching biologics to navigating healthcare payment models, James unpacks how systems, funding, and clinical decision-making collide in the real world. And with one of the cleanest cities on the planet facing a rising incidence of IBD, the hygiene hypothesis was always going to make an appearance—and yes, it gets a thorough airing. Just when listeners might be tempted to step away from the hand sanitiser, Dr Coelho steps in with a subtle (and cheeky) reminder: the hygiene hypothesis is not a licence for poor hygiene.

Join us on a virtual journey across India as we explore the changing face of paediatric IBD in one of the world’s most diverse countries. As pIBD becomes increasingly recognised across the subcontinent, Dr Rohan Malik—Additional Professor at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi—shares insights into the challenges of diagnosis and delivering high-quality care across a vast, varied, and often unequal healthcare system. We round off the episode on a deliciously thoughtful note, as Dr Coelho brings his signature poetic flair with “The Street-Food Hypothesis”—a playful yet pointed counter to the hygiene hypothesis, and a gentle rebellion against the spread of giant fast-food chains in rapidly developing nations.

Ring out the tinsel and ring in 2026! After the Christmas special, Professor Lissy de Ridder returns to THE PIBD Digest to kick off the new year with Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell. This first episode of 2026 dives head-first into advanced therapies, from biologics to small molecules—served with real-world experience, practical pearls, and an honest look at the challenges clinicians actually face. Expect nuance, clarity, and tips you’ll want to carry straight into your 2026 practice. Stay until the end for Dr Coelho’s poetic send-off—Auld Lang Syne included—because 2026 deserves both science and style.

In this festive Christmas special of THE pIBD DIGEST, hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell are joined by Professor Lissy De Ridder, incoming Chair of ESPGHAN's IBD Porto Group (European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition), for a lively and insightful discussion on investigator-initiated trials in paediatric IBD—and how clinician-led research is driving better care for children with Crohn’s disease and colitis. Balancing serious science with seasonal cheer, the hosts take listeners on a virtual winter stroll through Rotterdam, exploring the uniquely Dutch Christmas tradition of Sinterklaas—who, as it turns out, is not quite Santa. The episode wraps up on a decidedly Christmassy note, with Dr Coelho entering a poetic stand-off with Santa, who is regrettably far too busy enjoying mince pies and stroopwafels to respond. The poem, of course, is a heartfelt Christmas tribute to patients living with IBD. Science, seasonal sparkle, and a dash of festive mischief—this is one Christmas special you won’t want to miss

In the second episode of the Intestinal Ultrasound (IUS) series, hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell continue their mission to unravel what it really takes to set up an IUS service in IBD clinics. They’re joined first by Dr Nik Plevris, an adult gastroenterologist from Edinburgh, who offers a detailed—and impressively honest—tour through the range of challenges involved in building a new service. Next, we meet Dr Kwang Yang Lee, a paediatric gastroenterologist from Bristol and one of the very few brave souls actually using IUS in paediatric practice in the UK. He shares his expert perspective on what it’s like to introduce this technology to the smallest, “wiggly,” “suspicious,” and occasionally “not-so-co-operative” patients. To wrap things up on a lighter note, Kwang Yang faces the legendary “Gut-Fire Round,” where he must choose a totally hypothetical, utterly ridiculous alternative ultrasound-themed career path—complete with outrageously attractive perks. Will he abandon medicine for a life of glamour, glory, or suspiciously high-paying mythical job offers? Tune in to find out.

THE pIBD DIGEST goes full “Mission: IUS” in this two-part extravaganza! This episode explores the rising star of IBD monitoring — Intestinal Ultrasound (IUS) — as hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell dive into the buzz with an expert squad: paediatric radiology wizard Dr Richard Jenkins and adult gastro gurus Dr Krishna Shah and Dr William Blad. Together, they unpack what it takes to master IUS, the challenges of setting up a service, and why those mysterious grey dots are more exciting than they look. The episode wraps with a playful 007-style ‘gut-fire’ round with Dr Blad — shaken, not stirred — adding sass and a splash of colour to the greyscale world of IUS. So, scan in and tune up.

This week on THE pIBD DIGEST, we welcome Professor Richard Russell — outgoing Chair of the European society of paediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition (ESPGHAN) IBD Porto Group, champion of paediatric IBD innovation, and proud bearer of both biologic expertise and bagpipes. Joined by hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell, he explores the Porto Group’s pivotal work in international collaboration, guideline development, and advocacy for children with IBD. Together, they dive into the Group’s consensus response to the FDA’s draft guidance on paediatric IBD drug-approval trials — making a compelling case for faster access to advanced therapies by responsibly extrapolating adult IBD data to paediatric practice. And in a fitting homage to Professor Russell’s Scottish roots, the episode opens and closes with a Robbie Burns–inspired poetic tribute from Dr Coelho — a lyrical touch you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of THE pIBD DIGEST, Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell grab their metaphorical lab coats and magnifying glasses as they embark on a genomic safari with none other than Professor Sarah Ennis. Together, they venture deep into the tangled jungle of DNA to decode the mysteries behind Genomic Shenanigans in IBD. As genomics rapidly takes over the medical landscape (one base pair at a time), Professor Ennis—Professor of Genomics extraordinaire—gives us a sneak peek into the dazzling future of medicine where genes call the shots. And because all that genomic talk can twist anyone’s double helix, the episode winds down with a light-hearted “Gut-fire Round” — a rapid-fire Q&A designed to test how quickly even a genomics professor can think under pressure! But wait, there’s more! The hosts stealthily catch up with one of her brilliant PhD students, Fernando, who spills a few beans (genomically curated ones, of course) about his cutting-edge IBD research. So, buckle up for a mix of science, laughter, and a few genomic giggles in this DNA-powered deep dive into IBD!

In this episode of the pIBD DIGEST, Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell welcome a very special guest: the chair of the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG), Dr Shahida Din. The trio dive deep into the world of placebo trials in IBD, exploring not just the science, but also the very real harms and challenges these trials bring. It’s a rare treat (or should we say placebo effect?) to have an adult gastroenterologist join the podcast, offering insights that mirror the paediatric experience more closely than you might think. Dr Din dives into the nuts, bolts, and fine print of what happens when patients with active symptoms find themselves randomised to placebo. And just when you think the episode can’t get any deeper, Dr Din rounds it off with a poetic twist, ‘Placebo Dreams’—a moving tribute to the courage and generosity of patients who, despite their suffering, make invaluable contributions to advancing IBD care.

In this episode of the pIBD DIGEST Masterclass, Dr Coelho and Dr Bakewell don their tour-guide hats for a grand-round city tour of London, Liverpool, Southampton, and Sheffield. But forget Big Ben and The Beatles — today’s attraction is the world of JAK-inhibitors in IBD. On board the double-decker panel are: • Prof Tony Williams – the immune system whisperer • Courtney Preston, Helen Doble & Melody Chan – three pharmacy powerhouses • Dr Akshay Kapoor – Sheffield’s very own “IBD-heavy, JAK-savvy” paediatric gastroenterologist So, grab your ticket, take your seat, and enjoy the ride as we steam through the many stops of JAK-inhibitors in pIBD. Warning: intellectual curves ahead, but plenty of laughs en route!

In this latest globe-spanning edition of ‘THE pIBD DIGEST’, Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell embark on a virtual visit to Canada where they explore the environmental factors fuelling the rising incidence of IBD. Joining them is the ever-insightful Dr Eric Benchimol—a clinical academic, IBDologist, and Toronto-based superstar of IBD epidemiology. Together, the group unpacks key contributors to IBD with depth and clarity. Since Dr Benchimol is also a legendary Prince fan, Dr Coelho adds a creative twist: a poetic tribute titled “After Tears of Purple Rain”—a nod to Prince, a salute to their guest speaker, and above all, a heartfelt dedication to patients and families navigating the first wave of an IBD diagnosis.

In this episode of THE PIBD DIGEST, Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell welcome a true heavyweight in the world of monogenic IBD, Dr Jochen Kammermeier- a paediatric gastroenterologist at Evelina Children’s Hospital, London, and bona fide gene whisperer, who helps us untangle the twisted helix of monogenic IBD. Expect a deep dive into sharp gene talk and insightful immunology, and — of course — our signature poetic showdown. This week: Dr Coelho’s lyrical face-off, “A Tale of Two Adversities”, where monogenic and polygenic IBD battle it out in verse.

In this episode of THE pIBD DIGEST, hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell are joined by Dr Mary Halsey, a clinical psychologist, for an insightful discussion on the emotional and functional challenges that often accompany a diagnosis of IBD. Dr Halsey shares practical strategies to support the psychological well-being of children living with IBD, as well as their families, highlighting the importance of mental health as an integral part of patient care. To close the episode, Dr Coelho channels his inner bard with ‘When Gut Emotions Begin to Talk’, a heartfelt poetic tribute to patients navigating the often-overlooked psychological and emotional storms of IBD.

In this episode, hosts Dr Chris Bakewell and Dr Tracy Coelho pack their virtual suitcases and jet off (in spirit) to the UAE in The pIBD DIGEST – Dubai Safari. They're joined by a very special guest, Dr Christos Tzivinikos – Consultant Paediatric Gastroenterologist at Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital and Associate Clinical Professor at the MBRU School of Medicine, Dubai. Together, they delve into the evolving landscape of paediatric IBD care in the region, exploring everything from cutting-edge clinical practices to the unique cultural context of delivering care in the UAE. To wrap things up, Dr Coelho shares his heartfelt poem ‘Towards the Oasis of Hope’ – a moving tribute to young IBD patients, the journey of healing, and the promise that science continues to bring.

In this globe-trotting episode of the pIBD DIGEST, Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell leap (virtually) from the UK to the vibrant city of Melbourne to delve into the art and science of transitioning IBD care from childhood to adulthood. Joining them is the ever-insightful Dr Ed Giles, a clinical academic, IBDologist, and seasoned transition-care guru from Monash University. Together, they unpack the triumphs, challenges, and candid contrasts that define this complex but critical phase of care. To wrap things up, Dr Coelho brings a creative twist, sharing a poetic tribute inspired by the UK-wide 'Ready Steady Go' transition model—originally developed at the University of Southampton. His poem, titled “Ready Steady Go”, offers a heartfelt nod to the journey every young patient takes as they move toward adult care.

In this episode of THE pIBD DIGEST, Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell welcome the multi-talented Dr Nadeem Afzal, Associate Professor and Paediatric Gastroenterologist, based at the Southampton Children's Hospital. Dr Afzal dives deep into the world of training in endoscopy, breaking down the requirements, challenges, and nuances with clinical precision with regards to endoscopy in pIBD. As the scope retracts and the conversation wraps up, Dr Afzal plugs in his handmade guitar — yes, built by his own hands — and shreds in D minor pentatonic with a sprinkle of Hendrix! Finally, Dr Coelho caps it all off with his original satirical poem, The Scopic Odyssey, a poetic rollercoaster through the highs, lows, and awkward silences of trainee-trainer dynamics in endoscopy.

This week on THE pIBD DIGEST, hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell are joined by genetic sleuth Dr James Ashton to untangle the twisted tale of the mighty NOD2, arguably IBD’s biggest genetic diva. Expect deep science, passionate gene talk, and the traditional poetry, featuring Dr Coelho’s latest lyrical contribution: “An Ode to NOD2”, a poetic love letter to the gene that’s been hogging the IBD spotlight for decades.

After exploring the foundational concepts behind the microbiome's role in IBD in a previous episode, our guest, Dr Richard Hansen returns to take us straight into the world of microbial therapeutics. From dietary interventions to faecal microbial transplant (FMT) and next-gen probiotics, he unpacks how these approaches can reshape the gut and offer new hope in treating IBD. The episode wraps up on a creative note with Dr Hansen’s original guitar performance and Dr Coelho’s poetic piece, 'The Reverse Jobbie'- a slang-infused cheeky nod to the concept of FMT.

In this episode of THE pIBD DIGEST, hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell are joined by Dr Richard Hansen from Dundee for a deep dive into the gut microbiome and its role in inflammatory bowel disease. Dr Hansen unpacks the latest science and broad concepts shaping our understanding of the microbiome in pIBD. The episode ends on a creative high: an audio clip of Dr Hansen performing ‘Flower of Scotland’ in full kilt regalia, atop a shipping crane at ESPGHAN 2019 in Glasgow. Dr Coelho wraps up with his original satirical poem, 'Mantras of Dysbiosis', offering a sharp critique of the prevailing narratives around dysbiosis in disease.

In this follow-up episode, Dr Marco Gasparetto returns to the hot seat for a deeper dive into the fascinating world of AI-powered predictive modelling. With the hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell, the discussion ventures into the future of gastroenterology, exploring how AI-assisted technology is poised to transform the field. The episode wraps up on a creative note as Dr Gasparetto once again showcases his musical side with a brilliant performance of Tchaikovsky’s violin concerto, and Dr Coelho with his original poem titled "Scope-bots with AI in GI," blending gastroenterology, artificial intelligence, and just the right touch of poetic flair.

In the fourth episode of THE pIBD DIGEST, hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell are joined by guest speaker Dr Marco Gasparetto for an in-depth discussion on biomarkers in paediatric inflammatory bowel disease, with a special focus on prediction studies. Dr Gasparetto offers thoughtful analysis and insights into the latest scientific developments. The episode closes on a creative note, featuring an excerpt from a Vivaldi violin concerto performed by Dr Gasparetto, who is also a skilled violinist. Dr Coelho rounds off the episode with his original satirical poem, Predictomics, a witty take on the irony of trying to predict disease amidst vast oceans of multi-omic data.

In the third episode of ‘THE pIBD DIGEST’, hosts Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell reflect on key insights from the IBD talks at the recent BSPGHAN Conference in Newcastle. Guest speaker Dr James Ashton provides an in-depth analysis of the scientific discussions. The episode concludes on a lighter note, as Dr Coelho presents ‘The Disgruntled Delegate’, a fictional take on the experience of a weary and sceptical conference attendee.

Welcome to THE pIBD DIGEST, a brand-new podcast dedicated to paediatric inflammatory bowel disease (pIBD), hosted by paediatric gastroenterologists Dr Tracy Coelho and Dr Chris Bakewell. In this second episode, guest speaker Dr Anthi Thangarajah, Consultant Paediatric Gastroenterologist at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, delves into the latest advancements in pIBD treatment, expanding on insights from her talk at BSPGHAN Newcastle on March 19, 2025. Additionally, Dr Tracy Coelho shares his thought-provoking poem, Thiopurine Exodus, reflecting on the gradual shift from traditional therapies to emerging treatments in IBD. So, join us for an insightful and literary journey into the evolving landscape of paediatric IBD!

Welcome to The pIBD DIGEST, a brand-new podcast dedicated exclusively to inflammatory bowel disease in children, hosted by paediatric gastroenterologists Dr. Tracy Coelho and Dr. Chris Bakewell. In this inaugural episode, Dr. Coelho and Dr. Bakewell discuss the rising incidence of pIBD in both children and adults. Joining them is Dr. James Ashton, Associate Professor in Paediatric Gastroenterology from Southampton, UK, who shares valuable insights from his extensive research and publications on the subject. Adding a unique touch, Dr. Tracy Coelho also shares his poem on the rising incidence of pIBD. So, tune in for an enlightening and literary exploration of paediatric inflammatory bowel disease!