Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome a risk factor for developing colorectal cancer?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional problem of the gut, usually characterized by patterns of diarrhea and loose stools alternating with constipation. IBS may also be associated with abdominal cramping and pain. IBS is not associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Patients with IBS have normal life expectancies but should follow the recommended screening guidelines appropriate to their population. If your IBS symptoms change from their usual behavior or regular pattern, or if you see blood in your stool, notify your physician and gastroenterologist.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional problem of the gut usually characterized by patterns of diarrhea and loose stools alternating with constipation. It may also be associated with abdominal cramping and pain. IBS is not associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Patients with IBS have normal life expectancies. Although patients with IBS are not at increased risk for colorectal cancer, they are not at decreased risk either, and should follow the recommended screening guidelines like everyone else in the population. If your IBS symptoms change from their usual behavior or regular pattern, or if you see blood in your stool, please notify your physician and gastroenterologist.
