A position paper by ESPGHAN Hepatology Committee outlines recommendations and a checklist for liver biopsy in infants and children. Liver biopsy is still necessary in follow-up after liver transplantation and for monitoring disease activity.
A new study found that both short and long sleep durations are associated with an increased risk of developing ulcerative colitis. The study, published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, followed over 90% of nurses for biennial questionnaires to examine the association between sleep duration and incident disease.
Intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IAFLD) in children is characterized by gradual and often symptomless liver injury, with mortality rates up to 40%. Early enteral feeding and referral to specialized intestinal failure centers are key to prevention and treatment.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that thiopurine therapy for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may increase the risk of myeloid disorders, including acute myeloid leukemia. The study analyzed data from over 19,000 IBD patients and found a seven-fold increased risk among those taking thiopurines.
Gastroenterology and Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology journals received record-high impact factors, with Gastroenterology having the highest at 13.9. The journals' commitment to disseminating top clinical research is recognized by the GI community.
The ESPGHAN statement provides practical guidance on PEG tube placement and care, emphasizing the safety and effectiveness of this procedure for children with feeding and nutrition problems. The decision to insert a PEG tube should be made by a team experienced in carrying out the procedure.
A toolbox has been created to assist gastroenterology training directors in meeting ACGME Internal Medicine Subspecialty Reporting Milestones requirements. The toolkit includes 13 core tasks, or entrustable professional activities, that define the work of gastroenterologists and hepatologists.
Two studies published in Gastroenterology found that antiviral therapy can reduce the risk of liver cancer in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. Younger patients with minimal liver damage and those treated with nucleos(t)ide analogues showed a significant reduction in liver cancer risk.
A growing number of colorectal cancer deaths in Europe necessitates an increase in nurse endoscopy training, with regular screening reducing the risk by 20-30%. UEG and ESGENA are working together to standardize training requirements and improve workforce availability.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that probiotics can modify the gut microbiota to prevent hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis of the liver. The researchers discovered that probiotic supplementation was not associated with any side effects, suggesting a safer treatment option.
The AGA Institute published a special issue on the intestinal microbiome, exploring its role in maintaining human health and developing certain diseases. The research focuses on basic concepts, gut microbiome and disease interactions, and modification of the microbiome to maintain health or treat disease.
The American Gastroenterological Association has awarded several distinguished individuals for their lifetime contributions to the field of gastroenterology. Nicholas F. LaRusso, MD, AGAF, received the Julius Friedenwald Medal, while John A. Williams, MD, PhD, was honored with the Distinguished Achievement Award for his major research ...
At DDW 2014, researchers presented cutting-edge data on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) therapies and the impact of the gut microbiome on digestive health. The AGA Institute showcased its latest advances in GI research, including new treatments for pancreatic cancer and colorectal polyps.
The American Gastroenterological Association has awarded fellowships to 10 minority college students to further their research careers in digestive disease and nutrition. The 2014 AGA Investing in the Future Student Research Fellowship Award recipients will conduct eight to 10 weeks of research related to digestive diseases or nutrition.
The American Gastroenterological Association highlights significant new colorectal cancer (CRC) research in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Gastroenterology. Studies reveal the impact of patient factors on colonoscopy preparation quality, as well as the relationship between dietary fiber intake and reduced CRC risk.
Recent studies published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology investigate the association between diverticulosis, constipation, vitamin D levels, and risk of acute diverticulitis. The research provides new perspectives on the condition, challenging common beliefs and offering potential therapeutic strategies.
The new guidelines recommend using anti-TNF-α biologic agents to induce remission in patients with moderately severe Crohn's disease. The guidelines also provide recommendations for maintenance of remission, including the use of thiopurines or anti-TNF-α drugs.
The American Gastroenterological Association has expanded its corporate grant with Covidien to advance gastroenterology research and improve patient outcomes. The AGA-Covidien Research and Development Pilot Award in Technology will provide funding for innovative devices, diagnostic tools, and technologies.
A new study published in Gastroenterology found that high-calorie diets, regardless of sugar type, contribute to the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The study revealed comparable effects of fructose and glucose on the liver, highlighting calorie intake as a key factor in liver disease progression.
Dr. Noel's landmark study with the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition documented a drastic increase in cases of kids swallowing powerful neodymium magnets. His work led to recalls, lawsuits, and increased awareness about the dangers of these magnets.
PENTAX Medical will provide substantial funding over three years to stimulate innovation in gastroenterology, advancing science and practice. The partnership supports the AGA Institute's development of essential programming to promote innovation and technology in digestive diseases.
A study published in Gastroenterology found that carbonation can trick the brain into perceiving artificially sweetened drinks as just as sweet as regular ones. This effect may facilitate weight loss by making low-calorie drinks more palatable, but it also increases sugar and food consumption.
Boston Scientific will provide a $600,000 unrestricted grant over three years to the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Research and Technology Initiative. This funding will support research in technology, innovation, and education in gastroenterology and hepatology.
Researchers at UCLA have identified a new form of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that occurs after an acute bout of diverticulitis. The study, published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, found that patients who developed IBS-like symptoms after diverticulitis may also experience mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.
A new study suggests a hybrid screening strategy that combines annual or biennial fecal immunological tests with a single colonoscopy at age 66 may reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality while lowering costs. This approach can deliver health benefits comparable to current strategies, making it an attractive alternative.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that probiotic Saccharomuces boulardii does not prevent clinical relapse in patients with Crohn's disease. The one-year follow-up period showed similar rates of relapse between patients treated with S. boulardii or placebo.
A Phase 2 study found eluxadoline to be effective in decreasing abdominal pain and improving stool consistency without significant constipation risk. Symptom relief and quality of life scores increased over time, suggesting potential for a safe and effective treatment option.
Teduglutide improves intestinal absorption, reducing parenteral nutrition dependency and IV-fluid requirements. Patients with short-bowel syndrome experience significant relief from debilitating symptoms, achieving enhanced quality of life.
A new study published in Gastroenterology reveals a significant increase in drug-induced liver injury cases worldwide. The most common culprits were antibiotics like amoxicillin-clavulante, immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and biologics like infliximab.
A study at MassGeneral Hospital found significant disparities in the use of specialty services among African-American and Hispanic children with autism. Minority children were less likely to receive subspecialty care or procedures related to gastrointestinal issues, anxiety, or sleep disorders.
The AGA Research Foundation and Horizon Pharma awarded fellow and student abstract prizes to outstanding young researchers presenting at Digestive Disease Week. This year's winners include Jana G. Al Hashash, James D. Canavan, and Anne E. Powell, who received $1,000 awards each.
A new study found that screening only high-risk patients for celiac disease is more cost-effective than universal screening, preventing bone loss and fractures in patients with undiagnosed or subclinical disease. The strategy also reduces unnecessary endoscopic evaluations of healthy individuals.
The AGA recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to gastroenterology through its esteemed recognition awards. The 2013 awardees include Dr. Chung Owyang, who received the Julius Friedenwald Medal for his lifelong contributions to the field of gastroenterology.
The AGA's 13th annual special issue focuses on the pancreas, presenting a variety of topics related to exocrine function, endocrine regulation, and clinical manifestations. Key findings highlight the importance of innovative treatments for patients with pancreatic diseases.
A multi-center analysis shows fully covered self-expanding metal stents can effectively resolve painful and potentially life-threatening benign biliary strictures. The study found that 91.6% of patients had symptom relief after metal stent removal, with successful stricture resolution rates varying by patient group.
A University of Michigan study reveals that probiotics can reverse the effect of stress on gut microbiota, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. The study also highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome through lifestyle changes.
A recent study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that injecting botulinum toxin A (Botox) into the stomach does not cause weight loss. The Mayo Clinic researchers used a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to compare the effects of BTA to placebo.
A recent study from Stanford University School of Medicine found that increased use of colonoscopy screening may be responsible for the significant decrease in colorectal cancer incidence over the past decade. The study analyzed data from over 2 million patients and found a correlation between Medicare's extension of colonoscopy covera...
Two studies explored racial disparities in IBD symptoms and therapy, finding that African Americans are more likely to have extra-intestinal manifestations, joint symptoms, and pyoderma gangrenosum. Researchers also reported a higher prevalence of severe fistulizing perianal Crohn's disease among African Americans compared to Caucasians.
Researchers presented new insights on esophageal cancer prevention with statins, which showed a 30% reduction in incidence. Additionally, mortality rates from upper gastrointestinal bleeding decreased by 45%, while novel treatments for GERD and IBS were introduced, including electrical stimulation of the esophagus.
A recent study suggests that fecal microbiota therapy may help pediatric patients with recurrent C. diff. diarrhea, while another study highlights the increased risk of health complications in hospitalized children with CDI, including longer hospital stays and higher mortality rates.
Two studies suggest that women under 50 with endometrial cancer have a four-fold increased risk of colorectal cancer, while extended family members of patients with colorectal cancer also show an elevated risk. Additionally, obesity and gender may impact adenoma detection rates.
The study found a significant decrease in mortality rate for upper gastrointestinal bleeding, from 4.69% in 1989 to 2.13% in 2009. The proportion of patients undergoing in-hospital endoscopic therapy increased from 2% to 27%, and hospital stays decreased from 4.5 days to 2.8 days.
A new electrical stimulation treatment has shown promising results in resolving gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. The treatment involves implanting a device that uses low-energy electrical pulses to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, which can help prevent acid reflux.
Patients with chronic constipation may be at higher risk of developing colorectal cancer and benign neoplasms. The study found a consistent association between chronic constipation and the development of these conditions.
A meta-analysis of 11 studies involving almost 1 million patients found that statin use was associated with a significant 30% reduction in esophageal cancer incidence. The study also found a 41% decrease in the risk of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus among patients with Barrett's esophagus.
Researchers highlight two cases of selenium deficiency causing cardiomyopathy in patients who underwent gastric bypass surgery. The studies emphasize the crucial role of long-term follow-up and compliance with vitamin supplements to prevent nutritional deficiencies and related health complications.
Diabetic patients with gastroparesis can benefit from chronic electrical stimulation at specific acupuncture points, improving symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. The treatment is home-based, non-invasive, and has low side effects.
Advanced endoscopic tools and techniques, such as POEM for achalasia treatment and pCLE for IBS diagnosis, show promising results. These innovations aim to improve diagnosis and treatment options for gastrointestinal disorders.
A study suggests that Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of Barrett's Esophagus (BE) in diabetic men, with a twofold increase compared to non-diabetic men. The risk is higher in men due to differences in fat distribution, which may contribute to the association between Type 2 diabetes and BE.
Researchers report on cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CH), a little-known but costly effect of marijuana use, characterized by cyclic nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. CH can lead to expensive diagnostic tests and ineffective treatments, with some patients requiring multiple hospital visits and costing up to $30,000 in workups.
Researchers found that tricyclic antidepressants may help manage abdominal pain and diarrhea in patients with IBD, while mesalamine granules improved symptoms in those with IBS-D. This study suggests a possible link between GI tract inflammation and IBS symptoms.
The American Gastroenterological Association has launched new iPad apps for its journals, including Gastroenterology and Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. The apps offer full-text and PDF views, note-taking and bookmarking functionality, and are free to download from the Apple App store.
A new study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that smoking and heavy drinking can lead to an earlier onset of pancreatic cancer. The study analyzed data from 811 patients with pancreatic cancer and found that those who smoked heavily or drank excessively were diagnosed at a younger age than those who did not.
The study found that RRM2 overexpression is positively correlated with invasive properties of CRC cells. Silencing RRM2 inhibited hyperplasia and invasiveness, indicating its role in CRC progression. Additionally, RRM2 depletion increased UV sensitivity, suggesting a facilitating factor in DNA damage repair.
A new study published in Gastroenterology suggests that the immune system protein NFATc3 plays a significant role in the development of acute pancreatitis. The researchers found links between NFAT and trypsinogen activation, neutrophil recruitment, and tissue damage in mice.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that aspirin use may protect against Barrett's esophagus (BE), the largest known risk factor for esophageal cancer. High-dose aspirin was significantly associated with decreased BE risk, but caution is advised due to potential cardiovascular benefits.
The AGA journals, Gastroenterology and Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, maintained strong standing with high impact factors in 2011. Both journals received a significant number of citations and had outstanding immediacy indices.
The guidelines provide evidence-based information for diagnosing and managing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is rapidly becoming the most common cause of cirrhosis in the US. The condition can lead to liver cancer and failure, emphasizing the need for standardized medical care.
A new ethics framework is recommended to manage conflicts of interest in the development of medical guidelines, ensuring expert input without industry influence. The study found that such a framework can help identify and address ethics issues, but further analysis and initiatives are needed.