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Inflammatory Bowel Disease Causes & Risks

Causes

The exact causes of IBD are unknown, but some hypotheses include:

  • Heredity—having another family member with IBD
  • Contracting a germ or infection that affects the intestinal tract
  • Compromised immune system or infection that affects the immune system

IBD is not a contagious infection, so it cannot be passed from person to person.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

The following factors increase your chance of developing IBD:

  • Having a family member with IBD
  • Being Caucasian or of northern European ancestry
  • Jewish ancestry increases the risk of certain types of IBD
  • Problems with the immune system

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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