Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects approximately 1 in 200 people in the United States. Along with ulcerative colitis, it is a condition that can significantly impact daily life, even when symptoms are not always visible.
Crohn’s disease has a genetic component, with research showing that approximately 1 in 5 individuals diagnosed has a close family member who is also affected. The condition is classified as an autoimmune disorder, meaning the immune system reacts abnormally and causes ongoing inflammation within the digestive tract.
Managing Crohn’s disease often requires medications that suppress immune responses in order to control inflammation. While these treatments can help reduce flare-ups, they may also increase susceptibility to illness, creating additional challenges for those living with the condition.
One common complication associated with Crohn’s disease is malabsorption, which occurs when chronic inflammation damages the small intestine and interferes with the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients. This can contribute to fatigue, weight changes, and nutritional deficiencies that are not always outwardly visible.
Crohn’s disease is sometimes referred to as an “invisible illness” because many individuals appear well despite experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, fever, fatigue, bloating, night sweats, and an urgent need for restroom access. Because symptoms are not always obvious, misunderstandings and stigma often arise.
Currently, there is no cure for Crohn’s disease. For many individuals, managing the condition requires long-term treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and support. The Social Security Administration recognizes Crohn’s disease as a qualifying disability for individuals whose symptoms significantly interfere with daily functioning, which can help provide access to necessary support while also highlighting the seriousness of the condition.
Stigma surrounding Crohn’s disease often stems from misinformation and discomfort discussing digestive health. Increased education and awareness can help reduce misunderstanding, foster empathy, and create more supportive environments for individuals living with chronic conditions.
By encouraging open dialogue and informed understanding, we can take meaningful steps toward reducing stigma and supporting overall well-being.

Sources & Additional InformationThe information in this article is informed by trusted medical and public health organizations:

• Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation
  https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/
  
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
  https://www.niddk.nih.gov/
  
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  https://www.cdc.gov/
  
• **Social Security Administration – Disability Listings
  https://www.ssa.gov/
  

      




     
             
​  INGREDIENTS

1. • 1 pound potatoes
   • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
   • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
   • 1/2 teaspoon salt
   • 1/2 to 3/4 cup olive oil
2. • Accompaniments: sour cream and applesauce

           PREPARATION

1. 1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
   2. Peel potatoes and coarsely grate by hand, transferring to a large bowl of cold water as grated. Soak potatoes 1 to 2 minutes after last batch is added to water, then drain well in a colander.
   3. Spread grated potatoes and onion on a kitchen towel and roll up jelly-roll style. Twist towel tightly to wring out as much liquid as possible. Transfer potato mixture to a bowl and stir in egg and salt.
   4. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking. Working in batches of 4 latkes, spoon 2 tablespoons potato mixture per latke into skillet, spreading into 3-inch rounds with a fork. Reduce heat to moderate and cook until undersides are browned, about 5 minutes. Turn latkes over and cook until undersides are browned, about 5 minutes more. Transfer to paper towels to drain and season with salt. Add more oil to skillet as needed. Keep latkes warm on a wire rack set in a shallow baking pan in oven.