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Is Crohn's Disease Hereditary?

Genetics contribute to the cause of Crohn’s disease; also know as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Immune system disorders and environment act as the other contributing factors to IBD, a chronic inflammation of the intestines (see Reference 3).

  1. Gene Mutation

    • Inherited gene mutation leaves you vulnerable to developing Crohn’s disease. The mutation prohibits your body from correctly dealing with microbes, substances like bacteria and fungi (see Reference 3).

    Risk Factors

    • IBD is most commonly found in Caucasians and Jews (see Reference 3).

    Family

    • The gene mutation that contributes to the cause of Crohn’s disease can be inherited from immediate family -- parents to biological children (see Reference 3).

    Environmental Factors

    • Environmental factors that help cause IBD include smoking and diet (see Reference 3). People with Crohn’s disease should drink 8 to 10 beverages a day and have a high-fiber diet to help control the disease (see Reference 1).

    Considerations

    • Typically, Crohn’s disease diagnosis occurs in young adulthood (See Reference 2). IBD appears as often in females as males (see Reference 3).

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