Small ulcers can develop on the colon’s lining, and can bleed and produce mucus. The main symptoms of UC are recurring diarrhea, abdominal pain and a frequent and urgent need to empty the bowels.

Ulcerative colitis may be managed by a combination of drugs, including 5-ASA preparations, steroids, immunosuppressants and biological agents.

Unfortunately, medical treatment may not be effective in the management of the disease. When therapeutic treatments fail, surgical intervention is required. Up to 30% of patients will undergo surgical removal of the colon (“colectomy”).

UC is common worldwide, with considerable geographical variation in the incidence and prevalence. Today, it is estimated that there 1.5 million diagnosed prevalent cases in the U.S. and 5 largest European markets (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK) combined.*

*Adapted from GlobalData – Ulcerative Colitis: Global Drug Forecast and Market Analysis to 2029, Dec 2020