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Contents
  • Regular Surveillance Is Key
  • Chromoendoscopy: A Better Option?
  • Lifestyle Changes and Medication

How Can We Prevent Colorectal Cancer in IBD Patients?

How Can We Prevent Colorectal Cancer in IBD Patients?

Preventive Measures

With increased risks of colorectal cancer in IBD patients, knowing preventive measures is crucial for long-term health.
Contents
  • Regular Surveillance Is Key
  • Chromoendoscopy: A Better Option?
  • Lifestyle Changes and Medication

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.
Colorectal cancer risk is elevated in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Preventive measures such as regular surveillance and chromoendoscopy are critical for early detection and improved outcomes.

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.

FAQs

When should I start surveillance?

Begin surveillance colonoscopy eight years after IBD diagnosis.

What is chromoendoscopy?

It's a method using dyes to better detect dysplasia during colonoscopy.

Can medication help prevent cancer?

Yes, 5-aminosalicylates might reduce cancer risk in ulcerative colitis.

How often should I get checked?

Every one to three years, depending on risk factors.

Wrapping Up

Regular checks and preventive measures are your best defense against CRC.
Get started: Ask Doctronic about your personalized surveillance plan.
Additional References
  1. 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.
  2. 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.