Fear Of Cancer

[bklyn]

Every since my diagnosis 3 months ago, all I worry about is the risk of cancer associated with celiac disease. My doctor mentioned it several times to me, and every article and book I read discusses it. Am I the only person worrying about this. Please advise.

[gf4life]

As long as you don't have cancer now, sticking to the gluten-free diet is the best thing you can do to prevent any cancer from forming. If you do not eat gluten-free then you increase your risks of developing intestinal cancer, but once you are gluten-free your risks are about the same as the rest of the population. There is always going to be that risk, no one is immune from it, but letting it consume your thoughts is not a healthy way to live.

It would probably be a good idea for you to discuss your fears with a doctor or a therapist who can help you put them to rest. Relax, eat gluten-free, and know you are doing your best to protect your future.

God bless,

Mariann

[lovegrov]

There is an increased risk if you're not gluten-free, but even the increased chance is still miniscule. The odds are very small.

richard

[Rikki Tikki]

I agree with the answers above. Just be careful not to ingest gluten and your chances will be the same as most of the population. I do wonder, since this is an immune disorder if it gives us greater odds of getting other immune disorders?

[lovegrov]

Look ast the celiac.com articles, but I believe we are indeed at higher risk for other autoimmune disorders simply because we have one.

richard

[Deby]

I heard a lecture that agreed, we are at risk, but only if we do not stick to a gluten-free diet OR if we had celiac disease for a long time undiagnosed.