What Increases Your Risk of Small Bowel Cancer?
Published: Apr 01, 2024
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing small bowel cancer. Knowing these can help in prevention and early detection.
Contents
Genetic Factors
Genetic conditions like hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) significantly increase the risk of small bowel adenocarcinoma. Other syndromes like Peutz-Jeghers also elevate risk.
Lifestyle and Dietary Risks
High intake of alcohol, red meat, and smoked foods can increase the chance of small bowel cancer. Tobacco use and obesity are other potential risk factors, although studies show mixed results.

Chronic Conditions and Inflammation
Conditions like Crohn's disease and celiac disease, which cause chronic inflammation, are linked to higher risks of small bowel tumors. Chronic inflammation can lead to adenocarcinoma or lymphoma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, diets high in alcohol and red meat can increase the risk.
Yes, syndromes like HNPCC and FAP are linked to higher risks.
Yes, chronic inflammation from conditions like Crohn's disease increases cancer risk.
Studies show mixed results on smoking as a risk factor.
Wrapping Up
Knowing your risk factors can guide you in taking preventive measures against small bowel cancer.
References
- Neugut AI, Jacobson JS, Suh S, et al. The epidemiology of cancer of the small bowel. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1998; 7:243.
- Chow WH, Linet MS, McLaughlin JK, et al. Risk factors for small intestine cancer. Cancer Causes Control 1993; 4:163.
- Severson RK, Schenk M, Gurney JG, et al. Increasing incidence of adenocarcinomas and carcinoid tumors of the small intestine in adults. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1996; 5:81.
- Haselkorn T, Whittemore AS, Lilienfeld DE. Incidence of small bowel cancer in the United States and worldwide: geographic, temporal, and racial differences. Cancer Causes Control 2005; 16:781.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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