There are many types of gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, from common ailments such as constipation and heartburn to more serious conditions like colorectal cancer. GI diseases are classified as either functional or structural diseases. Functional disease covers conditions where the GI tract is healthy, but it doesn’t move the way it should. Structural disease refers to conditions where the digestive tract is not normal.

Functional and structural gastrointestinal diseases are often caused by lifestyle factors or environmental causes (like eating or drinking contaminated food or water), but many of them also involve family history. While specific genetic components have not been identified in all gastrointestinal diseases, it’s common to see an increased family history in patients with digestive issues.

It is important to note that having a family history of gastrointestinal disease does not mean you will develop the same disease. However, it can mean that you have a higher risk. Some GI conditions have very clear genetic components. Others may be due to epigenetic aspects, meaning how the genes are affected by environmental and lifestyle factors.

Digestive diseases with a known genetic component include the list below.

  • Colorectal Cancer: According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 3 people diagnosed with colorectal cancer have a family history. The risk is higher for those whose history involves a first-degree relative (parent, child or sibling). It is not always clear if the risk is caused by genes or shared environmental factors. Adenomatous polyps (polyps that can become cancerous) are also linked to family history. 
  • Celiac Disease: The Celiac Disease Foundation reports a 1 in 10 risk of developing celiac disease for people who have a first-degree relative with celiac disease. 
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Studies cited by the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation show that up to 20% of people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a first-degree relative with IBD. This includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The genetic risk is greater in Crohn’s. They also report a substantially higher risk of both diseases when both parents have IBD.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Genetics are believed to play a major role in GERD and associated disorders, including Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Twin and family studies reported in the National Institutes of Health National Library of Medicine cite a 31% heritability.

If you do have a history of GI conditions in your family, it is important to discuss these with your doctor. Even though family history is often a small part of your overall risk, it may put you in a higher risk category that requires different screening to those at average risk.

Regardless of your family history, there is a lot you can do to avoid gastrointestinal disease through healthy lifestyle habits. 

  • Eat a healthy, whole-foods diet with plenty of fiber.
  • Stay properly hydrated.
  • Get plenty of exercise.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Manage stress.
  • Drink in moderation or not at all.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Get enough high-quality sleep.

If you have concerns about your gastrointestinal health or questions about your risks, GastroIntestinal Specialists is here to help!

The team at GastroIntestinal Specialists, A.M.C., treats multiple conditions and diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Our board-certified physicians have more than 150 years of combined experience in providing quality care you can trust. To schedule an appointment, call (318) 631-9121 or visit gis.md.