Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Research on IBDs continues as doctors learn more and more about these conditions, which affect the digestive system. Patients with IBDs often have to change their diets and suffer from symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and extreme fatigue. Furthermore, these diseases can increase the risk of complications such as fissures or colon cancer. As inflammation takes over the intestines, colon symptoms worsen and a person’s quality of life is negatively affected.
Although there are some treatments available to help aid in the management of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, there is currently no cure. It isn’t clear as to what causes Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, but researchers are now closer to having a better understanding of its genetic link to inflammatory bowel disease.
Genetic link found in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
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The researchers of the study looked at the genomes of nearly 68,000 people. After a closer look at the regions of the genome associated with IBD, 18 were traced to a single genetic variant with over 95 percent certainty.
Co-author of the study, Dr. Jeffrey Barrett, explained, “We have taken the biggest ever data set for IBD and applied careful statistics to narrow down to the individual genetic variants involved. Now we have a clearer picture of which genes do and do not play a role in the disease. We are zooming in on the genetic culprits of IBD.”
Uncovering the genes responsible for inflammatory bowel disease could improve treatment by better-targeted medications.
Current treatments for inflammatory bowel disease include steroids, immunosuppressants, or anti-inflammatory medications. Although these treatments are not a cure, they do help manage symptoms and slow down disease progression. If medications are not effective, surgery may be required, which works to remove heavily diseased areas of the intestine.
Inflammatory bowel disease affects nearly 1.6 million Americans, with the majority of patients being diagnosed before the age of 35.
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
