Can IBS, Diverticulosis And Ulcerated Colitis Result In Cancer?

Posted on Wed, 29 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 29 Apr 2015 Answered on

Wed, 20 May 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Can IBS, diverticulosis & ulcerated colitis result in cancer? I have fought these for several years.

Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Ulcerative colitis may lead to cancer

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

the answer is simple... IBS and diverticulosis have nothing to do with cancer.
Ulcerative colitis may lead to cancer in 3-5% 10-15 years after disease onset.

Kind Regards!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (22 hours later)

Would this mean that I should have follow-up colonoscopies to keep an eye on the colitis? It has been several years since I was told I have the condition. I do contend with constant diarrhea.

Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Repeat colonoscopies are required

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

you do have to do a conolonoscopy from time to time. Colonoscopy is advised in any individual over 50 years of age, every 5 years as a preventive measure against colon cancer. You've got an increased risk (albeit small) for colon cancer, so there's one more reason for you to do it.

Kind regards!

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar