Have Ulcerative Colitis, new symptoms sign of cancer?

I am 22 and have had UC for over 3 years now but I am currently in remission. For the past two weeks my stools have been ribbon shaped and takes a long time to pass and is usually painful. I looked up this symptom online today and saw that it could indicate colorectal cancer. Do you think it is just from the IBD or is this something more serious that I shoudl have looked at?

Keep in mind that I do not have insurance and a Colonoscopy is over $700 without it :(
Thanks

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
Ulcerative colitis is a risk factor for colorectal cancer.

The risk of developing colorectal cancer from UC depends on -
1. The extent of the disease
2. The duration of the disease

If the whole of the colon is involved, it may take more than 8-10 years to develop CRC and so after that period regular screening with  colonoscopy should be done.

If only the left colon is involved, then it may take more than 12-15 years to develop colorectal cancer.

Since you have only 3 years since diagnosed, it may not be colorectal cancer.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.