Colon Cancer & Crohn's Disease

Colon cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow and destroy tissue in the large intestine. Crohn's disease occurs when the lining of the digestive tract becomes inflamed. Having Crohn's disease increases a person's risk of getting colon cancer.

Causes

• Doctors don't always know what causes colon cancer or Crohn's disease, but they think heredity may be a factor; a mutated gene could be passed along. Crohn's disease may also be caused by a malfunctioning immune system.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of colon cancer and Crohn's disease include bloody stools, abdominal cramping and diarrhea. People with Crohn's may also experience loss of appetite and ulcers.

Testing

• Doctors can test for colon cancer and Crohn's disease by taking blood samples or using imaging tests, such as a CT scan. A biopsy may also be taken to confirm colon cancer.

Risk Factors

• Older age, a family history of colon cancer, diabetes and obesity are risk factors of colon cancer. Risk factors of Crohn's include smoking, a family history of Crohn's and being in the 20-to-30 age group.

Considerations

• Eating diets high in fiber and low in fat can help prevent colon cancer or Crohn's. If you have already been diagnosed with Crohn's, eating such a diet may help prevent symptoms.