The Link Between IBD and Colon Cancer

Some people may not know that there is a link between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colon cancer. IBD causes the lining of your intestine to become inflamed, which can cause polyps to form in the colon. This article will explore what IBD and colon cancer are, how they are linked, and prevention tips.

What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

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IBD is a condition that results in inflammation of the digestive tract. This inflammation can cause pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. There are two main types of IBD: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, while ulcerative colitis only affects the large intestine.

What is Colon Cancer?

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Colon cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon, part of the large intestine that sits just below the stomach. Colon cancer can also spread to other body parts, such as the liver and lungs. In the United States, it's the third most common type of cancer, after breast and prostate cancer. About 140,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer every year, and about 50,000 people die from it.

How are IBD and Colon Cancer Related

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There is a strong relationship between IBD and colon cancer. The risk of developing colon cancer is higher in people with IBD. This is because the inflammation caused by IBD can lead to cell changes in the colon lining that may increase the risk for cancer.

The Inflammation of IBD can result in polyps, also called adenomas, which are considered precursor lesions for cancerous growths or tumors. You can lower your risk by changing your diet and lifestyle, but you should always consult a doctor before doing so.

How do you know if you have IBD or colon cancer?

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If you are experiencing any IBD symptoms, such as pain, diarrhea, or vomiting, it is vital to see a doctor. They will diagnose you and determine if you have IBD or another condition.

If you have been diagnosed with IBD, your doctor will likely do regular screenings for colon cancer. This is because developing colon cancer is higher in people with IBD. Several tests can be used to screen for colon cancer, including a colonoscopy or a CT scan.

If you are concerned that you may have colon cancer, it is crucial to see a doctor. They will be able to perform tests to determine if you have cancer.

What can be done about the two diseases?

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There are several things that can be done about IBD and colon cancer. If you have IBD, your doctor may recommend regular screenings for colon cancer. There are several tests that can be used to screen for colon cancer, including a colonoscopy or a CT scan.

Preventive Steps

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You can do several things to prevent both IBD and colon cancer from happening to you. Some of these things include:

• Eating a healthy diet

• Exercising regularly

• Avoiding smoking and other tobacco products

• Limiting alcohol intake

• Getting regular screenings for colon cancer, if you have IBD

If you follow these tips, you can reduce your risk of developing both IBD and colon cancer.

Carolina Digestive Can Help Your Gut Health

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The good news is there are ways you can lower this risk by making dietary, lifestyle, and screening adjustments accordingly. If you want help implementing these principles or want more information on how IBD and colon cancer correlate, feel free to contact us today. Our team will be happy to work together with you to create a prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategy. We treat all gastrointestinal issues and disorders with quality, comprehensive care.