What is UC?
UC is a chronic disease of the colon, or large intestine, affecting approximately 500,000 people in the United States. It can cause such symptoms as severe abdominal cramping and pain, the sudden, uncontrollable urge for bowel movements, and fatigue. UC and Crohn’s disease (CD) are the two main disease categories that belong to a larger group of illnesses called Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). These illnesses are marked by an abnormal response by the body's immune system that typically develops in people between the ages of 15 and 35. However, anyone at any age can develop CD or UC, from infants to the elderly.
What causes UC?
Although considerable progress has been made in IBD research, investigators do not yet know what causes UC. Studies indicate that the inflammation in UC involves a complex interaction of issues: genetic predisposition, the state of the immune system and environmental factors. Researchers believe that once the UC patient's immune system is "turned on," it does not know how to properly "turn off" at the right time.
UC can tend to run in families. Studies have shown that up to 10% of people with UC will have a close relative with either UC or CD.
What are the symptoms?
UC causes tiny open sores, or ulcers, to form on the surface of the lining of the colon, where they bleed and produce pus and mucus. Because the inflammation makes the colon empty frequently, symptoms typically include bloody stools, severe diarrhea, and sudden urges for bowel movements, often leading to unwanted weight loss, blood loss, and a host of secondary complications.
Can it be cured?
Currently, there is no medicinal cure for UC, and 25% to 40% of UC patients will eventually have their colons removed because of severe illness, risk of cancer, massive bleeding, or rupture of the colon.
Additional Resources
Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) is dedicated to its mission to cure and prevent Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis through research, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these digestive diseases through education and support. In addition to funding outstanding research worldwide, CCFA offers a wide range of programs and services for patients and medical professionals, including Webcasts, live education seminars, publications, and support groups. For more information, contact CCFA at (800) 932-2423 or visit www.ccfa.org.
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