In the U.S, about 500,000 to 2 million people are affected by ulcerative colitis. In comparison, Canada leads in number of incidences of ulcerative colitis in the world. On the contrary, it is rarely seen in Eastern Europe, Asia and South America.

Ulcerative Colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease which triggers constant diarrhea mixed with blood. It affects the large intestine, colon with open sores or ulcers.

Ulcerative colitis is caused by various reasons such as genetic factors, diet and multiple autoimmune disorders etc.

Apart from diarrhea, other symptoms are: Aphthous ulcers of the mouth, iritis or uveitis, seronegative arthritis, erythema nodosum, deep venous thrombosis, inflammation of bile ducts and autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

Ulcerative colitis can be diagnosed by a complete blood count, renal function tests and electrolyte studies, liver function tests, x-ray, urinalysis, stool culture, ESR and C-Reactive protein tests.

There is no specific criterion for ulcerative colitis such as age or gender, however, younger people and the first degree relatives of patients with IBD are likely to develop ulcerative colitis. In addition it affects females more than males.

Ulcerative colitis may require bowel rest, hospitalization, intravenous treatment, surgery and in the long run the major concern of ulcerative colitis could be colon cancer.

Treatment for ulcerative colitis includes cortisone, steroids, Prednisone, anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, diet and controlled emotions.

Patients with proctitis or left sided ulcerative colitis have a more benign course with only 15% progressing and about 20% have had remission.

Mortality rate of ulcerative colitis is not yet determined but it is accepted that the ulcerative colitis does affect mainly quality of life and not lifespan.