Research Article Open Access

Familial Diverticulitis: A Pilot Study Introducing an Innovative Survey Examining Risk Factors for Diverticulitis

Abstract

Objective: Diverticulitis has become increasingly prevalent in Western society. Risk factors for diverticulitis include age, diet, gut microbiota milieu, physical activity, obesity and genetics. Cases of familial diverticulitis are rare and widely understudied. In this paper, we report a case of a family who underwent sigmoidectomy for diverticulitis, while evaluating their risk factors for diverticulitis through the first questionnaire designed specifically for the disease entity of diverticulitis. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed of three family members who underwent a sigmoidectomy for diverticulitis. A comprehensive literature review was used to create a Diverticulitis Risk Factors Questionnaire and distributed to the family members. Results: Common risk factors of the family members, identified through our Diverticulitis Risk Factors Questionnaire, included obesity, African American race, and a diet low in fiber and high in refined carbohydrates. Conclusion: This pilot study introduces the first known questionnaire evaluating the genetic, clinical and lifestyle risk factors associated with diverticulitis.

Carbunaru S, Abraham B, Givner D, Leeds I and Fang SH*

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