Colon cancer surveillance.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is one of the most important risk factors affecting the long-term outcome of patients with ulcerative colitis. Therefore, an extensive effort has been devoted to prevent and reduce the mortality related to colorectal cancer through cancer surveillance programs. Studies have demonstrated that cancer surveillance can lead to an improved outcome in patients who go on to develop cancer. Given increasing reports of cancer risk in Crohn's disease, further studies examining the potential impact of a similar program in Crohn's disease should be considered.