health

Most people with Crohn disease have periods of remission and are able to
hold jobs and generally lead normal lives. Medical treatment of Crohn
disease, however, becomes less effective over time; about 80 percent of
patients require surgery eventually. In addition, the disease can recur after
surgery. The chance of a shortened life span or serious complications
increases with the duration of the illness; patients with Crohn disease
have an increased risk of colorectal cancer. The disease itself, however,
is rarely fatal.