Life Insurance Options For Ulcerative Colitis Patients

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects around 1 million Americans. It can cause abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and fatigue, but it does not lead to early death. However, people with ulcerative colitis may face challenges when trying to secure life insurance. The good news is that it is possible to obtain life insurance even with this pre-existing condition. The severity of the condition, the type of treatment received, and the time since the last flare-up are crucial factors in determining the life insurance rate. Those with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis may qualify for standard or lower-than-average rates, while those with severe cases will likely pay higher-than-average premiums.

The severity of your condition

The severity of your ulcerative colitis will have a significant impact on your life insurance premiums. The more severe your condition, the higher your premiums are likely to be, as insurers will consider you a higher risk.

The severity of your ulcerative colitis will be assessed in several ways. Firstly, the type of ulcerative colitis you have will be taken into account. Ulcerative proctitis, which affects only the rectum, is considered less severe than proctosigmoiditis, which involves the rectum and adjacent areas. The more areas affected by the disease, the more severe it is likely to be considered.

The frequency and severity of flare-ups will also be considered. If you have mild ulcerative colitis, you will likely experience infrequent flare-ups with mild symptoms such as intermittent rectal bleeding, intermittent diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps. In contrast, those with severe ulcerative colitis may experience frequent flare-ups with symptoms such as fever and heavy bleeding, which often require hospitalisation.

The treatments you have received for your ulcerative colitis will also be considered when assessing the severity of your condition. Mild cases are usually treated with medications such as Mesalamine, Asacol, and Rowasa enemas. In contrast, severe cases often require continuous use of steroid-based medications or even surgery. If you have had surgery to remove some or all of your colon, insurers will consider you a high risk.

The length of time since your diagnosis and your current health status will also be considered. If you have had ulcerative colitis for more than 10 years, it increases your risk of colon cancer, which will be taken into account by insurers. They will also want to know when your last flare-up was and how well your condition is currently controlled. If your condition is well-controlled and you have minimal flare-ups, you are more likely to get a better rate on your life insurance.

In summary, the severity of your ulcerative colitis will be assessed based on the type of the disease you have, the frequency and severity of flare-ups, the treatments you have received, and the length of time since your diagnosis. The more severe your condition, the higher your life insurance premiums are likely to be. However, it is still possible to obtain life insurance even with severe ulcerative colitis, and independent insurance brokers can help you find the best cover for your needs.

Your treatment plan

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the lining of the colon, causing inflammation and ulcers. While there is no cure for UC, a combination of treatment options can help patients lead a full and rewarding life. Treatment for UC is multifaceted and includes medication, clinical trials, dietary changes, and sometimes surgery.

Medication

The primary goal of treating UC is to help patients regulate their immune system better and control inflammation. Medication can suppress the inflammation of the colon and allow tissues to heal. Several types of medication are used to treat UC, including:

• Aminosalicylates (5-ASAs): Drugs taken orally or rectally to decrease inflammation in the lining of the intestines, typically used for mild to moderate UC. Examples include sulfasalazine and mesalamine.
• Biologics: Designed to work on targeted parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation, usually used for moderate to severe UC.
• Corticosteroids (steroids): Medication such as prednisone, prednisolone, and budesonide that affect the body's ability to initiate and maintain the inflammatory process, keeping the immune system in check. While effective for short-term flare-ups, they are not recommended for long-term use due to potential side effects.
• Immune modifiers (immunomodulators): Drugs that modify the body's immune system activity to prevent ongoing inflammation, typically used to maintain remission or for patients who have only responded to steroids. Examples include azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, and methotrexate.
• Targeted oral small molecules: Pills or capsules that help reduce inflammation by targeting specific parts of the immune system, usually used for moderate to severe UC when other treatments have not worked well.

Clinical Trials

Participating in clinical trials can be a way to access new and improved therapies, as well as receive medical treatment or drugs at no cost. Clinical trials are one of the final stages of a long and careful research process, and they play a crucial role in improving treatment options for patients.

Dietary Changes

While ulcerative colitis is not caused by specific foods, certain dietary changes can help reduce symptoms, replace lost nutrients, and promote healing. Maintaining a healthy and soothing diet is important, as the disease can reduce appetite while increasing energy needs. Soft, bland foods are often better tolerated than spicy or high-fiber foods. Dairy foods may be restricted if lactose intolerance is present.

Surgery

In cases where medical therapy is not completely successful or complications arise, surgery may be considered. Surgery typically involves the removal of the colon (colectomy) and, in some cases, the rectum (proctocolectomy). Newer surgical techniques have been developed to avoid the need for an ileostomy, preserving bowel integrity and eliminating the need for an external ostomy appliance.

Time since your last flare-up

The time that has passed since your last flare-up will be a critical factor in determining your eligibility for life insurance and the premiums you will be required to pay. The longer it has been since your last flare-up, the better your chances of obtaining life insurance at a reasonable rate.

Insurance companies view ulcerative colitis as a pre-existing condition, and they will want to assess the risk of future complications and flare-ups. They will consider the severity and frequency of your past flare-ups and the impact they have had on your overall health. If you have a history of frequent hospitalizations or surgeries related to your condition, insurers may perceive you as a higher risk applicant.

Generally, insurance providers will seek evidence of stable health and a sustained period of remission before offering you coverage. This waiting period is essential for them to evaluate your risk profile and ensure that your ulcerative colitis is well-controlled. While each insurance company may have distinct criteria, you will typically need to demonstrate at least 12 months of remission to qualify for standard rates.

If you are currently experiencing symptoms or have recently recovered from a flare-up, it is advisable to allow for a period of remission before applying for life insurance. Consult your healthcare provider to ensure your condition is effectively managed, and consider applying once you have maintained consistent control of your symptoms. Doing so improves your chances of obtaining coverage and securing more affordable premiums.

It is worth remembering that different insurers may have varying requirements and waiting periods. Shopping around and comparing multiple insurers can help you find the most suitable option for your circumstances. Transparency about your health history is also crucial, as it enables insurers to accurately assess your application and provide you with the appropriate coverage.

Your medication

The type of medication you take for your ulcerative colitis will be a factor in determining your life insurance coverage and cost. Medication is one of the prescribed treatments that insurance underwriters will review when evaluating your application.

Medications for ulcerative colitis can include anti-inflammatory drugs, biologics, and drugs to control diarrhea, ease pain, and boost iron levels if you have anemia. Medication costs for ulcerative colitis can range from $2,500 to $25,000 a year without insurance.

Medications that help stop inflammation, called TNF inhibitors, are the most expensive. Studies show that people who stop taking them lower their overall health care costs but go to the hospital more often for ulcerative colitis symptoms.

If you are taking medication for ulcerative colitis, be prepared to provide the following information to insurance providers:

• The name of the medication
• The dosage and frequency
• How long you have been taking the medication
• Whether the medication is controlling your symptoms
• Any side effects you have experienced from the medication
• Any other treatments or therapies you are undergoing

It is important to be honest and detailed in your application to ensure you get the best coverage and cost for your life insurance.

Your medical history

Current Health Status and Treatment

Underwriters will assess how well your condition is managed and the treatments you are undergoing. They will look at the medications you are taking and whether you are compliant with your prescribed treatment plan. It's important to be honest about your health status and provide accurate information. Maintaining regular medical check-ups and following your doctor's advice can improve your chances of getting better rates.

Severity and Type of Ulcerative Colitis

The severity of your ulcerative colitis, including the extent of colon involvement, will impact your insurance rate. Mild cases with limited inflammation and infrequent flare-ups are generally considered lower risk. In contrast, more severe cases with frequent flare-ups, hospitalisations, and persistent symptoms will result in higher insurance rates. The type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is also a factor, with chronic ulcerative colitis and chronic proctitis being the main types considered.

Time Since Diagnosis and Complications

The time since your ulcerative colitis diagnosis is relevant to insurers. They will want to know how long you have been living with the condition as it can impact your life expectancy and the risk of associated complications. Complications such as bleeding, inflammation, or other issues will be taken into account when determining your rate.

Colonoscopy Results and Medical History

Your colonoscopy results are an important part of your medical history. Underwriters will review these results, along with your overall medical history, to assess your health status and identify any potential risks. They will also consider your family medical history, especially if colon cancer runs in your family, as it can impact your insurance rate.

Lifestyle Habits and Risk Factors

In addition to your medical history, underwriters will evaluate other risk factors such as age, gender, tobacco and alcohol use, and lifestyle habits. Older individuals, for example, are considered higher risk and will generally pay more for life insurance. These factors, along with your medical history, will contribute to determining your overall risk assessment and the insurance rate you will be offered.

Frequently asked questions