Special care

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a long-term condition affecting the colon (large intestine) and the rectum (end of the bowel). It leads to inflammation and the formation of small sores that may bleed and produce pus.¹

In the UK, at least 1 in 227 people are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and there are approximately 296,000 people currently living with the condition.¹

In ulcerative colitis, the immune system starts attacking the bowel, the exact cause for this is currently unknown but may be affected by multiple factors, such as genetics, gut bacteria and the environment.² Previously diet and stress were suspected as being causative factors, however, researchers now know that these factors may aggravate but don’t cause ulcerative colitis.³

Ulcerative colitis affects men and women equally and is most commonly diagnosed between 15 and 25 years of age.¹

Ulcerative colitis signs and symptoms include:¹

Various tests are used to diagnose ulcerative colitis including:⁴

• Stool test: a sample of faeces is tested
• Blood tests: a sample of blood is tested
• Sigmoidoscopy: a thin tube containing a camera that allows a doctor to see inside the colon

Further support and resources

There are several charities and organisations in the UK dedicated to supporting individuals with ulcerative colitis, raising awareness about the condition, funding research, and providing resources for patients and caregivers.

For resources to support you with managing your condition:

• Bowel Research UK
• CICRA
• Crohn’s & Colitis UK
• Guts UK

Patient Resources

If you’re a patient, or a carer of a patient, who has been prescribed one of our products, you’ll find information and resources to help manage your condition here

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