Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a term used to describe chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. It primarily includes two main conditions: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus, while ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon and rectum. IBD has serious implications for colon & rectal cancer. Read on to find out more.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Singapore Statistics
Traditionally, IBD was considered a disease of the Western world. However, recent studies have shown that the prevalence of IBD is rising globally, including in newly industrialized countries in Asia. Most IBD patients were diagnosed at age 35 or younger. In Singapore, the incidence and prevalence of IBD have been increasing over the past two decades. Estimates put the number of patients in Singapore with IBD at about 2,000.
Difference Between Inflammatory Bowel Disease And Irritable Bowel Syndrome
It is important to distinguish between IBD and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), as they are often confused due to similar names. IBD is an autoimmune condition characterized by chronic inflammation and immune system activation, leading to damage in the digestive tract. On the other hand, IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder without inflammation. IBS is primarily associated with symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits, but it does not cause the same level of tissue damage or systemic inflammation as IBD.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease And Colon & Rectal Cancer Risk
One of the most concerning aspects of IBD is its potential to lead to cancer. Chronic inflammation in the digestive tract can increase the risk of developing colon & rectal cancer, especially in patients with long-standing ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease affecting the colon. A study puts a 7% risk of developing colon & rectal cancer for patients suffering from IBD. Moreover, IBD also means that colon & rectal cancer strikes earlier – this is in view of the fact that most IBD patients were diagnosed with the condition at a younger age of under 35 years.
Regular monitoring and early intervention are crucial to manage this risk and improve patient outcomes. Younger IBD patients should consider colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer before the usual recommended age of 50 years old.
Learn More: Guide To Colon & Rectal Cancer In Singapore >>
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a serious and chronic condition that requires careful management and monitoring. Understanding the differences between IBD and IBS, as well as the associated cancer risks, is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. With the rising prevalence of IBD in Singapore, it’s important for healthcare providers and patients to stay informed and proactive in managing this condition. If you are experiencing Inflammatory Bowel Disease symptoms, you should consider seeing a doctor to have it investigated, especially as it may increase your risk of colon & rectal cancer.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.