Prognosis and Duration of disabling effects

In many cases good control of the symptoms and exacerbations can be achieved with appropriate medication. At any one time 50% of people are asymptomatic, 30% have mild symptoms and 20% have moderate to severe disease. People learn to control the symptoms themselves by use of medication and attention to nutrition. Many people have long periods of complete remission. Overall life expectancy is the same as that of the general population.

In comparison with older people younger people tend to have more extensive disease. Older people however may have more adverse outcomes, if they have a severe attack with complications.

After thirty years a third of people with ulcerative colitis affecting the whole colon develop colonic cancer.

Surgical removal of the entire colon is associated with a good prognosis removing the need for long-term medication to prevent remission, and eliminates the risk of developing colonic cancer.

All information must be taken into account when considering the duration of disabling effects and the duration of disabling effects must be based on the particular circumstances of the individual claimant.

Amended April 2008