Research suggests that those with UC are at an increased risk ofcolorectalcancer (cancer that starts in thecolonorrectum).
Ulcerative Colitis and Cancer: What Is the Connection?
The majority of polyps are benign (noncancerous), but over time, some polyps can become cancerous.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
But if the cancer is diagnosed early, it can be treated effectively.
If cancer is localized to the colon or rectum, the five-year survival rate is 91%.
This allows your doctor to identify and remove any polyps or other tissue that may be precancerous.
Recent technological advances have improved methods for identifying cancer or precancer in the large intestine during a colonoscopy.
For instance, achromoendoscopymay be used to identify polyps and precancerous changes in the large intestine.
This involves using a blue contrast dye to highlight any changes to the lining of the intestine.
In this case, surveillance through colonoscopy should begin as soon as a UC diagnosis has been given.
Be sure to follow the fasting instructions given to you by your healthcare provider.
In most cases, you will be awake (but kept very relaxed with medication) during the procedure.
They will also remove any polyps and tissue samples.
Typically, you will be able to go home the same day.
Some limited research has shown a decreased risk of colorectal cancer in UC patients treated with certain anti-inflammatory medications.
Summary
Having ulcerative colitis may increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Most people with UC will never develop cancer.
The surgeon may also remove polyps and samples of tissue for testing during the procedure.
Recommendations for how often you should have a colonoscopy vary, depending on your risk factors.
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.Overview of ulcerative colitis.
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.Signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Crohn’s and Colitis UK.Bowel cancer risk.
Yashiro M.Ulcerative colitis-associated colorectal cancer.World J Gastroenterol.
2014;20(44):16389-16397. doi:10.3748/wjg.v20.i44.16389
American Cancer Society.Survival Rates for colorectal cancer.
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.The risk of colorectal cancer in Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis patients
Johns Hopkins.Colonoscopy.
Wilkins T, McMechan D, Talukder A.Colorectal cancer screening and prevention.Am Fam Physician.
2018;97(10):658-665.
