Risk factors

Ulcerative colitis affects about the same number of women and men. Risk factors may include:

• Age. Ulcerative colitis usually begins before the age of 30. But it can occur at any age, and some people may not develop the disease until after age 60.
• Race or ethnicity. Although whites have the highest risk of the disease, it can occur in any race. If you're of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, your risk is even higher.
• Family history. You're at higher risk if you have a close relative, such as a parent, sibling or child, with the disease.