Ulcerative Colitis and Colon Cancer

Ulcerative Colitis and Colon Cancer

Individuals with ulcerative colitis are at increased risk for colon cancer. The risk of colon cancer increases as the duration of disease, and the extent of the disease in the colon increase. To prevent colon cancer, screening colonoscopy with biopsies are recommended on a regular basis (usually annually) in order to detect precancerous cells so that the colon can be removed surgically before cancer develops. Screening usually is begun approximately eight years after the onset of the disease, the time at which the incidence of colon cancer begins to increase.