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Is there a connection between ulcerated colitis and the development of colon cancer? An estimated half million Americans have also ulcerated colitis and some physicians believe that the number could actually be higher than 500,000. Most patients are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis before the age of 30 and there appears to be a genetic link that may play a part.

When talking about colon disorders or digestive disorders, it is helpful to define three of the major digestive disorders. Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder that affects both the small and large intestines. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) causes abdominal pain, gassiness, and changes in bowel habits. These, of course, are the same symptoms that the American Cancer Society refers to when speaking about possible signs of colon cancer.

IBS is also known as spastic colon; but IBS should not be confused with ulcerative colitis. Colitis attacks the inner lining of the large intestine. The lining becomes inflamed, can progress to ulceration and ultimately bleeding ulcerated.

A third digestive disorder is known as Crohn's disease. Like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease causes inflammation but the inflammation can affect other organs in addition to the large intestine, organs including the small intestine and the upper part of the digestive tract. With Crohn's disease, other symptoms can also be present including anemia and fever and sometimes a life-threatening complication such as intestinal blockage.

Is there a cancer connection between these colon disorders and colon cancer? Researchers report that colon cancer among persons diagnosed with ulcerative colitis remains rare. The lifetime incidence of colon cancer is 2.5% at 10 years 8%, at 20 years and 11% at 50 years. The American Cancer Society recommends screening with colonoscopy eight years after the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis is first made. There is some distinction as to when the screening should take place, dependant on whether or not the whole or only part of the colon is affected. Most importantly, the American Cancer Society calls for follow-up screenings every one to two years thereafter. Close and systemic follow-up should help reduce the already small percentage of persons with ulcerative colitis from having to undergo surgical removal of their colon.