Table 2. Risk factors for UC.

UC: ulcerative colitis

Non – modifiable risk factors
Age	UC generally develops before the age of 30, however, it can occur at any age.
Race or ethnicity	Caucasians are at the highest risk of contracting UC. People of Ashkenazi Jewish origin are at an even higher risk of developing UC.
Genetics	People with a family history of UC are at a greater risk of developing the disease (parent, sibling, or child with UC).
Modifiable risk factors
Environmental factors	Reacting to things in the environment such as bacteria or chemicals can cause uncontrollable inflammation in the gastrointestinal system.
Diet and lifestyle	While they are less prevalent risk factors for UC, greater consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids may lead to digestive health difficulties. A sedentary lifestyle and smoking are also risk factors for general health that affect your gut health.