Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Could Be Colorectal Cancer

More than 3 million Americans live with inflammatory bowel disease. The two main types of inflammatory disease - Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis - markedly increase a patient’s colon cancer risk.

IBD and colorectal cancer have increased inflammation in the colon, which can lead to the formation of atypical cells in the colon; the cells that can develop into cancer.

You are at danger of developing colon cancer if:

• You experience severe inflammation,
• You have been an IBD patient for more than eight years. Be advised to go for colonoscopy yearly for two years
• Your family has a history of primary inflammatory bile duct condition

IBD patients are advised to have a cancer screening called chromo endoscopy, to catch the lesions sooner, before they become cancerous.

Additional Protective Actions against IBD

• Visit your doctor for consultation at least once a year
• Take your medications regularly
• For any new signs or if someone in your family has colorectal cancer; inform the doctor as soon as possible
• Eat less red meat
• Exercise regularly

Inflammatory Bowel Disease May Lead to:

• Malnutrition resulting in weight loss
• Colorectal cancer
• Bowel wall ulcers(fistulas)
• Perforation (intestinal rupture) and
• Bowel obstructions

Risk Factors for Developing IBD

• Smoking
• If a family member had IBD, you are at a higher risk of developing the disease.
• Geographical area: people in urban areas and industrialized countries have a higher risk of getting IBD.
• Lifestyle choices and diet: persons with white-collar jobs are likely to develop the disease.
• Gender: in general, IBD affects both sexes alike. Crohn’s illness is more common among women, while ulcerative colitis is common in men.

To effectively manage colorectal cancer, early screening is essential. It helps detect cancer while at its early stage stages, making it easier to treat. Besides, IBD patients are advised to talk to their doctor about the advanced method of cancer screening procedure called chromo endoscopy.