Causes+of+IBD

​Causes of Inflammatory Bowel Disease The cause of Inflammatory Bowel Disease is not yet known. Although there is evidence to suggest that these diseases are due to a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and alterations in the function of the immune system, doctors still have not found one definite cause.

Some factors suggest a //genetic// basis for IBD such as:

__**Genes Linked to IBD**__ - the first gene associated with Crohn's disease, the NOD2 gene, was identified
 * __Family History__** - 10-20% of affected individuals will have a family history of IBD, with the highest risk first-degree relatives
 * __Race and Ethnicity__ -** racial differences in IBD incidents exist, with the highest rates among Caucasian

Some factors suggest an //evironmental// basis for IBD such as:


 * __Minerals & Hard Metals__**- research has found minerals and hard metals in potable water ways could be a contributing factor to IBD
 * __Too Cleanly__**- children in developed countries aren't exposed to as many intestinal bacteria as children in devoloping world, therefore, may no develop immune systems that are able to prevent IBD in adulthood