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Cancer Information Tips :: Chrons Disease
Chrons Disease: Chrons Disease and Cancer
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Chrons disease (correctly spelled "Crohn's") is a disease that involves inflammation of the bowels.
If you suffer from Chrons disease, the lining of your digestive tract - anywhere from the mouth to the anus - will become inflamed, causing abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Chrons disease is often called an IBD, or inflammatory bowel disease, and is similar to ulcerative colitis. IBDs are not usually fatal, but they can be debilitating and can also lead to other complications or diseases, including cancer.
Who is at Risk for Chrons Disease?
Chrons disease is an equal opportunity disease. Both men and women are at risk for and can develop Chrons disease at any age. The condition is likely to develop in your 20's.
While people who are Jewish and of European descent have about five times the chance of developing Chrons disease and white people in general are at higher risk, anybody of any race or ethnicity can develop the disease. If someone in your family has had the disease, the risk is even higher.
Smokers have a much higher risk of developing Chrons disease. Continued smoking after the diagnosis can increase the severity of the disease and lessen the effect of treatment as well.
How is Chrons Disease Related to Cancer?
If you develop Chrons disease, this can mean that you are at greater risk for developing colon cancer.
Although the vast majority of people who have Chrons disease never develop cancer, it is important to minimize your risk by making appointments for regular screening.
The risk for colon cancer goes up in people over 50, so if you have suffered from Chrons disease for more than eight years, and you are in an age group that has a higher risk it is incredibly important to be vigilant about your health.
Because treatment of Chrons disease also involves using immune system suppressors, that can also increase the risk of developing colon cancer or another type of cancer.
Make sure you discuss the medications you are taking to treat Chrons disease with your doctor so you are aware of all the risks involved with the individual medications and combinations found in your therapy.
What Other Kinds of Cancer are Associated with Chrons Disease?
Along with colon cancer, the risk of developing other cancers, like cancer of the anus and cancer of the small intestine can increase in patients with Chrons disease.
It is of vital importance that someone suffering from Chrons disease discusses their symptoms and changes in their symptoms with their doctor.
Screening
The most common way for doctors to screen for Chrons disease and colon cancer is with a colonoscopy. It is a very simple procedure and a schedule for screening can be determined with your doctor.
Of course, if your symptoms change or you suffer any complications from Chrons disease, it's important to alert your physician as soon as possible.
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CancerInfoTips.com :: Chrons Disease