The European Federation of Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis Associations (EFCCA) is an umbrella organisation founded in 1991, representing 46 national patient associations across Europe. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for people living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis, by advocating for patient rights, raising awareness and supporting research.
EFCCA works to enhance patient participation in healthcare and research, ensuring that the needs of people with IBD are addressed at national and European levels. The organisation aims to influence public health policies, improve access to care and support the development of new treatments for IBD.
EFCCA’s core activities include networking between patient organisations, raising awareness about IBD and promoting patient empowerment. The organisation works closely with healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers and the pharmaceutical industry to improve care standards and ensure that IBD patients receive the best possible treatment and support.
In addition, EFCCA is currently involved in nine (9) European research projects, aimed at advancing research and improving the understanding and treatment of IBD. The organisation also provides educational resources and training through initiatives like the EFCCA Academy, empowering patients to actively engage in their IBD management.
With a strong focus on collaboration, EFCCA participates in global efforts to improve IBD care, hosting international meetings and working with global patient organisations. EFCCA works to improve access to care and the quality of life for people living with IBD, while striving for better treatments and, ultimately, a cure for the disease.
Role within INTERCEPT
EFCCA plays a key role in the INTERCEPT project, focusing on patient involvement and advocacy. As a representative of IBD patients across Europe, EFCCA ensures that the perspectives and needs of individuals living with Crohn's disease are central to the project’s objectives. The organisation actively participates in developing workshops, providing insights on patient needs and collaborating with researchers, clinicians and other stakeholders to improve early disease intervention and predictive modeling. EFCCA also works to facilitate patient engagement in research, helping to shape more effective, patient-centered approaches. Through its involvement, EFCCA contributes to advancing knowledge and treatment strategies for Crohn’s disease, while promoting patient empowerment and participation in the project's outcomes.
Main contacts
Luisa Avedano
CEO
Fernanda Salinas
EU Project Assistant
Tatiana Negurita
Finance Project Officer
Isabella Haaf
Head of Communications