Bowel Conditions
Crohn's Disease - A chronic inflammatory condition affecting either the small intestine (the ileum), or the large intestine (the colon). The cause is unknown, and there is no known cure. Symptoms can be alleviated through treatment and can go into remission. The crucial factor for underwriting is how recently the client last experienced symptoms. A GP's report will be requested automatically.
For life insurance - Major insurers take the view that if the client has had any symptoms in the last 12 months then a life insurance premium loading is likely. If more than 3 years have elapsed since any symptoms then ordinary rates are likely.
For critical illness – Most cases will be declined, but check with a LifeSearch adviser as to whether cover can be arranged.
For income protection - Most cases will be declined, but check with a LifeSearch adviser as to whether cover can be arranged.
Colitis/Ulcerative Colitis - A disease of the large intestine, in which the lining of the colon becomes inflamed, swollen and extremely ulcerated. The condition predisposes to cancer. Surgical removal of the effected areas (a colectomy) is sometimes necessary. A GP's report will be requested automatically.
For life insurance - Premiums will vary depending on the severity of the condition, how much of the bowel is affected and how recently the symptoms have been experienced. A successful colectomy and no symptoms for a few years may mean ordinary life insurance rates, or a small premium loading.
For critical illness - If it has not been treated successfully, a heavy rating at best, but a likely decline. A successful colectomy and no symptoms for a few years may attract only a small premium loading of around 50-100%. Check with a LifeSearch adviser as to whether cover can be arranged.
For income protection - Moderate rating and exclusion if the symptoms are mild. Large ratings or a likely decline for more severe cases. Check with a LifeSearch adviser as to whether cover can be arranged.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - This can cover a multitude of different conditions, and there is no agreement on a single cause or treatment. It frequently affects young women. Basic details of diagnosis date, duration, treatment and current situation will be needed.
For life insurance - IBS should not require a GP’s report, but may require a bowel conditions questionnaire. It should not affect life insurance premiums.
For critical illness - A GP’s report is more likely when applying for critical illness, but a higher premium is unlikely if the diagnosis is confirmed as IBS.
For income protection - A GP’s report is likely. However, assuming this does not indicate a more severe bowel condition, the result should not lead to higher income protection rates.
