A recent study found a significant increase in liver injury caused by herbals and dietary supplements in the US population over a ten-year period. Non-bodybuilding supplements were more likely to result in death or liver transplantation compared to conventional medications.
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.
Researchers are studying how a new IBS drug, linaclotide, helps alleviate stomach pain by normalizing gut-brain communication. The study assesses the effectiveness of linaclotide in 45 IBS patients over 10 weeks.
A global prevalence study reveals that HCV genotype 1 accounts for over 46% of all cases, followed by genotypes 3 and 2. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding viral genotype to develop new treatments for HCV.
A new study found that dietary elimination therapy is an effective treatment for adults with eosinophilic esophagitis, with 71 percent of patients experiencing symptom improvement. The most common triggers were dairy and eggs, and adding them back to the diet after a six-week period showed promising results.
Penn Medicine researchers found that living donor transplant outcomes are superior to those of deceased donors when surgeries are performed at an experienced center. The three-year patient survival rate for living donor recipients was 83% compared to 78% for deceased donors.
Researchers found nine variants in the CFTR gene associated with pancreatitis, sinusitis, and male infertility, but leave the lungs unaffected. The study identifies mechanisms behind these conditions, paving the way for treatments and potential medications.
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.
A study of over 2,600 adults with hepatitis B found that antiviral therapy significantly reduced the occurrence of liver cancer (HCC) by 60%. The therapy was more effective than treatment in preventing HCC than untreated patients. Results suggest a potential new approach to preventing a common and deadly form of cancer.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed an optical blood oxygen sensor attached to an endoscope that can identify pancreatic cancer with a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 86%. The device measures changes in blood flow near the pancreas, which tumors alter to grow. Early detection is crucial as most pancreatic cancers are diagno...
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.
Scientists have developed a liver cancer vaccine that is effective in preventing the disease in mice, with the goal of improving patient survival rates. The vaccine targets a specific protein expressed by most liver cancer cells, allowing the immune system to recognize and attack them.
Researchers tracked real-time virus replication and drug clearance in HCV patients, revealing a lag between liver and blood viral decay. The findings suggest the need for tailored therapy to achieve viral eradication and may inform vaccine development.
A study found that people enrolled in methadone treatment programs are receptive to HCV education and treatment. The research suggests that these facilities can provide sustained HCV treatment by linking care to substance abuse treatment, leading to improved adherence.
A significant increase in acute pancreatitis cases was found in hospitalized children in the US, with a 51% rise from 2000 to 2009. Hospitalized children with AP had longer hospital stays and higher charges, with older children over 5 years of age more likely to develop the condition.
Research found that snacking on high-fat and high-sugar foods increases intrahepatic triglyceride content and belly fat, but not with larger meal size. The study suggests cutting down on snacking may reduce the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver 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 ...
Researchers found that lean patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) had a higher overall mortality rate and were more likely to be male and of lower socioeconomic status. They also showed signs of liver inflammation despite having less body fat and lower levels of liver damage.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that high doses of steroids are ineffective in improving medical outcomes for infants with end-stage pediatric liver disease. The research also suggests that steroid treatment may lead to earlier onset of serious adverse events.
A pilot study found that a vibrating capsule increased spontaneous bowel movements and decreased constipation symptoms in patients with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and C-IBS. The capsule uses mechanical stimulation to mimic the body's natural physiology, avoiding common side effects of medication.
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.
A recent study published in the British Medical Journal found that probiotic use for infant colic did not reduce crying or fussing. However, adding lactase to milk can help alleviate symptoms by breaking down lactose. This alternative approach has shown promise in reducing hours of crying.
The new interferon-free 3D regimen, consisting of ABT-450/R/ABT-267 and ABT-333 plus ribavirin, demonstrated consistently high cure rates across various patient types, including GT1a and compensated cirrhosis patients. The treatment achieved SVR12 rates of 96.2% in SAPPHIRE-I study participants.
A recent study found that mortality from viral hepatitis is significantly higher than from HIV/AIDS across EU countries. In 2010, there were nearly 90,000 deaths due to hepatitis C and nearly 31,000 deaths due to hepatitis B, compared to just over 8,000 deaths from HIV/AIDS.
Consuming two or more cups of coffee per day significantly lowers the risk of death from liver cirrhosis, particularly non-viral hepatitis related cases. Heavy alcohol use increases cirrhosis mortality risk.
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.
A Rice University-led team of researchers found that liver cells up-regulate glycolytic pathway to produce more energy in response to disease, leading to net gain in metabolic output. The study suggests new treatments to delay liver failure by boosting glycolytic energy production.
Researchers found a higher risk of pancreatic cancer in patients with acute pancreatitis, particularly those over 40. The study suggests that patients with acute pancreatitis should be evaluated for pancreatic cancer using esophageal ultrasound.
The study found that Glycerol phenylbutyrate significantly reduced hepatic encephalopathy events, hospitalizations, and ammonia levels compared to placebo. GPB's direct ammonia-lowering agent properties suggest its therapeutic potential for patients with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy.
A study analyzing patient telephone records at an IBD clinic found that frequent callers are more likely to be hospitalized or enter the emergency room. The analysis identified patterns of phone calls as a predictor of future medical interventions.
Researchers from University of Notre Dame and Indiana University School of Medicine have revealed a link between the circadian clock and alcohol-induced liver disease. The study found that disturbances in the liver's daily rhythms can lead to fatty liver disease, suggesting a potential target for treatment.
A novel study suggests that monitoring inactive chronic hepatitis B (HBV) carriers is a cost-effective strategy for China. The M&T strategy, which includes twice-yearly assessment of HBV and ALT levels, would result in significant health benefits at the population level, including reduced liver cancer and mortality rates.
A study published in Hepatology found that SLPI protein plays a critical role in excessive anti-inflammatory responses in acute liver failure, making patients susceptible to sepsis and infection. Inhibiting SLPI protein may help restore immune function and prevent infection in these patients.
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.
Researchers found that HCV antiviral therapy reduces risks of kidney disease, stroke, and cardiovascular diseases in diabetic patients. The study also linked diabetes with chronic HCV infection, suggesting a potential association between the two conditions.
Researchers found that the risk of developing diverticulitis from diverticulosis is significantly lower than previously thought, with only 1% over seven years. Younger patients diagnosed with diverticulosis are more likely to progress to diverticulitis.
A minimally invasive endoscopic procedure to remove superficial, early stage esophageal cancer is as effective as surgery that takes out and rebuilds the esophagus, according to a Mayo Clinic study. The research found that patients treated by endoscopy had similar overall survival times compared to surgery.
A study by IDIBELL researchers has identified a mechanism inducing tumor cell migration in liver cancer, suggesting that patients with overactivated TGFb and high CXCR4 levels may benefit from TGFb inhibitory therapy. The findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying liver cancer 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.
A non-invasive alternative to liver biopsy, the French-made FibroScan, has been proven very reliable in a national multi-center study. The device measures liver stiffness to assess fibrosis and guide treatment, providing quick and painless results.
A study found that over half of chronic hepatitis C patients were not treated due to therapy limitations or waiting for newer treatments, leaving them without access to potentially life-saving care. Another study identified a significant 'lost opportunity' for patients to achieve the current best result of treatment.
Research published in Hepatology suggests that estrogen has a protective effect against the development of severe liver fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The study found that men and post-menopausal women have similar risks of developing severe fibrosis compared to pre-menopausal women.
A meta-analysis of 16 high-quality studies found that coffee consumption reduces the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by about 40%, with 3 cups per day showing a 50% reduction. Chronic infections with hepatitis B and C viruses are the main causes of liver cancer.
A new study found that oral nutritional supplements provided to pediatric patients during hospitalization decreased length of stay by 14.8 percent and reduced hospital stay costs by $1,768 per patient. The study analyzed data from over half a million hospitalized pediatric cases.
Researchers at CNIO discovered that Fra-1 protein protects the liver from drug-induced damage and neutralizes toxins. This new regulatory mechanism could lead to future studies on new drugs for diseases related to toxic compound accumulation.
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 systematic review and meta-analysis found that radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective treatment for most patients with dysplastic Barrett's esophagus. The procedure led to complete eradication of dysplasia in 91% of patients, while intestinal metaplasia was eradicated in 78%, and recurrent metaplasia occurred in 13%.
A new study has found that a smartphone app can quickly screen for cognitive dysfunction often found in patients with cirrhosis. The app, called EncephalApp_Stroop, is a valid method for screening minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) and may improve treatment rates in potential patients.
A study found that women had higher rates of spontaneous viral clearance, with an average time to clearance of 16.5 weeks. The gene IL28B and HCV genotype 1 were also independent predictors of spontaneous clearance in females.
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.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that increased caffeine intake may reduce fatty liver in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Consuming four cups of coffee or tea a day could be beneficial in preventing and protecting against the progression of NAFLD.
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.
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 Hepatology reveals that higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with an increased risk of gallstone disease, especially in women. The research found a significant correlation between BMI and gallstone risk, with women facing a higher risk than men.
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.
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.