The gut microbiome is of paramount importance in preserving internal balance in the gastrointestinal tract; therefore, disruptions in its regulation have been linked to the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This article explores the intricate details of the gastrointestinal microbiome as it pertains to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with an emphasis on the Middle East. The study reviews the typical gut microbiome, modifications in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), determinants impacting the gut microbiome of the Middle East, and prospective therapeutic interventions.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant public health issue, representing one of the greatest causes of both cancer diagnosis and mortality globally. While the incidence is highest in high-income countries, it is rising across the world, including in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Many countries have implemented national screening programmes to reduce the burden of CRC, utilising mostly stool tests and colonoscopy, but this has yet to occur across most MENA countries. Uptake of screening opportunities is generally poor. System-level barriers to establishing screening programmes include cost constraints and limited screening infrastructure. Patient-level barriers include embarrassment, fear of a cancer diagnosis, and limited awareness/education. Screening programmes across the MENA region would likely reduce the CRC incidence. These barriers must be overcome through patient education and government action to ensure appropriate patient uptake. This study aims to examine CRC screening practices across MENA, identify key barriers, and propose solutions for sustainable CRC management in the region, through a narrative review and expert input from the Middle East and North Africa Colorectal Cancer (MENA-CRC) Screening and Prevention collaborators.