Why is CD more common than UC in children?

Question

Hi doctor,

I used to get diarrhea and stomach problem since my childhood, and I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease in my small intestine. So I want to know whether people who get this disease in their childhood get it from their parents only? I know that people sometimes get it in their adult stage because of environmental factors, but they get it in the ileum and colon. But those who get it in the jejunum are mainly children, and I want to know whether it is linked with their parents because if it is not genetic, then why children get it so early? And I also want to know why this Crohn's disease is rare compared to ulcerative colitis in my country?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read very carefully about your queries.

1. Why Crohn's disease is more common than ulcerative colitis in children?

In the preschool group, ulcerative colitis is more common than Crohn's disease, but in older children, Crohn's disease is more common than ulcerative colitis. In the last few years, the incidence of Crohn's disease is increasing, but the incidence of ulcerative colitis remains unchanged. The exact cause of this difference is still unknown. There are some hypotheses, such as dietary modification, urbanization but nothing is established.

2. Why Crohn's disease occurs in children?

The reason is both genetic and environmental. When genetically susceptible people are exposed to environmental factors, they develop Crohn's disease. But you asked why early in children if they have no family or genetic connection? As mentioned, it needs both components for development. There is some research on the early development of Crohn's disease. Children (genetically susceptible) who are less breastfed, taking more antibiotics, more fatty food, and less fibrous food are more likely to develop early. Besides this, if an affected family member is present, development increases in the early period.

I hope this helps you. If you want to know more, feel free to contact me. Thanks.