People who suffer from certain inflammatory bowel diseases have an even greater risk of developing colon cancer if they also have a condition known as primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). 

Researchers have known for some time that inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, increase the risk for colon cancer.  A recent study by the Mayo Clinic and others concludes that the risk is seven times greater for those who also have PSC.   The risk also goes up for patients who have experienced chronic symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease for a long period of time.

Just as importantly, says UT Medical Group colon and rectal surgeon Dr. John Cromwell, the study shows that the risk of colorectal cancer does not go down even after colonoscopy and removal of the inflamed portion of the colon.

“This lends support to our current practice of offering total removal of the colon and rectum in patients with severe and long-standing disease,” he says.  “This practice has been shown to decrease the risk of colorectal cancer to almost zero in this population.”

Find out if you are at risk for colon and rectal cancer, and learn what steps you can take to your risk.  For more information on the study, visit the American Journal of Gastroenterology.

For risk factors and preventive tips click here.

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