Contents
How Can We Prevent Colorectal Cancer in IBD Patients?
Published: Oct 02, 2024
With increased risks of colorectal cancer in IBD patients, knowing preventive measures is crucial for long-term health.
Regular Surveillance Is Key
The main goal of regular surveillance colonoscopies is to detect dysplasia early, which can prevent colorectal cancer. Guidelines recommend starting surveillance eight years after IBD diagnosis, with follow-ups every one to three years. This approach aids in catching cancer early and increasing survival rates.
Chromoendoscopy: A Better Option?
Chromoendoscopy is a technique that uses special dyes to highlight abnormal tissues, making it easier to spot dysplasia. Studies show it has a higher detection rate for dysplasia compared to other methods. This makes it a preferred technique by many medical societies for IBD surveillance.
Lifestyle Changes and Medication
Medication like 5-aminosalicylates may reduce cancer risk in ulcerative colitis patients. Lifestyle changes that reduce inflammation, like diet and exercise, can also help. These combined with regular surveillance could significantly lower cancer risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Begin surveillance colonoscopy eight years after IBD diagnosis.
It's a method using dyes to better detect dysplasia during colonoscopy.
Yes, 5-aminosalicylates might reduce cancer risk in ulcerative colitis.
Every one to three years, depending on risk factors.
Wrapping Up
Regular checks and preventive measures are your best defense against CRC.
References
- Murthy SK, Feuerstein JD, Nguyen GC, Velayos FS. AGA Clinical Practice Update on Endoscopic Surveillance and Management of Colorectal Dysplasia in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Expert Review. Gastroenterology 2021; 161:1043.
- Jess T, Simonsen J, Jørgensen KT, et al. Decreasing risk of colorectal cancer in patients with inflammatory bowel disease over 30 years. Gastroenterology 2012; 143:375.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?