Questionnaire-Based Survey on Management of Ulcerative Colitis-Associated Cancer in East Asian Countries

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Oncology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Ulcerative colitis (UC) carries an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
• Understanding current management strategies for UC-associated cancer is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Regional variations in management practices necessitate specific investigations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current management of ulcerative colitis (UC)-associated cancer.
• To gather expert opinions on colitis-associated cancer surveillance and treatment in East Asia.
• To identify regional characteristics of UC-associated cancer.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire-based survey was distributed to physicians across East Asian countries.
• The survey included questions on UC management and cancer surveillance protocols.
• Data from neoplastic cases were also collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Most physicians initiate surveillance colonoscopy within 10 years of UC onset, utilize targeted biopsies, and find advanced imaging beneficial.
• Elevated lesions and type 4 lesions were common in early and advanced UC-associated cancer, respectively.
• Peritoneal metastasis and undifferentiated tumors were frequent, with poor prognosis in stage III and undifferentiated types; laparoscopic surgery is widely adopted.

Conclusions:

• The survey provides insights into current East Asian management strategies for UC-associated cancer.
• Key characteristics of UC-associated cancer in the region were elucidated.
• This study highlights the need for standardized and optimized approaches to UC-associated cancer care.