Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that produces inflammation and ulcers (sores) in the membrane lining of the rectum and colon--which can be quite painful, with bloody diarrhea and rectal bleeding. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) of the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the incidence of this condition peaks between 15 and 30 years of age. Both men and women suffer equally from this disease, and data indicate that individuals of Jewish heritage, as well as Caucasians, experience a higher incidence of ulcerative colitis in comparison to other populations.
Genetics
Debra Ford, MD, of Howard University's College of Medicine, reports that ulcerative colitis is associated with approximately 250,000 health-care visits yearly, and also that 20,000 hospitalizations each year are due specifically to this disorder. The etiology of ulcerative colitis with the most empirical support is heredity--that is, a family history of the disease; additionally, specific genes have been identified that increase susceptibility to ulcerative colitis. However, one will not automatically acquire the disorder just because a genetic predisposition exists; rather, it is currently believed that identified environmental triggers are the impetus for the disease to manifest itself.
Immune System
According to Dr. Ford, a link between ulcerative colitis and immunity presently is the most popular theory to provide a cause for the disorder. Basically, the theory proposes the following: Normal bacteria that reside in the gut are interpreted incorrectly as an antigen or foreign substance that then triggers the immune system to react in an abnormal attack fashion (against itself) that is typically reserved for potentially dangerous pathogens, such as external bacteria or viruses. It is this inappropriate immune response, according to this theory, that produces the inflammation in ulcerative colitis.
Other
For an unknown reason, the incidence of ulcerative colitis in those who smoke is cut in half as compared to non-smokers; indeed, the incidence of smoking among individuals who are diagnosed with the disease is even less than that of the general population. Recognition of this relationship with smoking has led to speculation that nicotine could be used as a treatment. Finally, a medical history that includes an appendectomy also appears to be a risk factor for developing ulcerative colitis.
