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Risk factors for small intestine cancer are behaviors or conditions that increase the chance that a person might develop cancer. While some risk factors have been shown to influence the development of the cancer, they are not thought to be a direct cause. Some individuals who have several risk factors never develop cancer, while others who have no known risk factors are diagnosed with the condition.

The following factors may raise a person’s risk for developing small intestine cancer:

  • Certain genetic conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, Celiac disease, cystic fibrosis and others that affect the gastrointestinal tract
  • Eating large amounts of foods that are smoked, cured or high in fat
  • A family history of small intestine cancer

In addition, age and gender seem to play roles in the development of small intestine cancer, with the condition developing more commonly after age 60. Statistically, men tend to be more at risk than women for developing this form of cancer. Certain lifestyle factors also seem to be connected with the development of many forms of cancer, such as tobacco use and body weight.

Patients who are concerned about the risk factors for developing small intestine cancer are welcome to consult with the oncologists at Moffitt Cancer Center with or without a referral. We are a nationally recognized leader in cancer research, diagnosis and treatment, offering our patients highly individualized cancer care under the guidance of the multispecialty team of experts in our Gastrointestinal Oncology Program. This team includes surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, interventional radiologists, nurses and others who collaborate to develop each patient’s treatment plan and monitor his or her progress on a weekly basis.

To learn more about small intestine cancer risk factors, or to consult with a member of our team, call Moffitt Cancer Center at 1-888-663-3488, or fill out our new patient registration form.