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 22-year study of 88,902 participants found that colonoscopy reduced death from colorectal cancer by up to 40% compared to sigmoidoscopy. The study suggests that colonoscopy is the most effective screening method for preventing colorectal cancer.
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.
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.
The American Gastroenterological Association has partnered with the Gastric Cancer Foundation to create a new grant supporting research in gastric and esophageal cancer. The AGA Institute will match the GCF's $1.125M commitment, resulting in a $2.25M endowment for young investigators.
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.
The AGA Research Foundation has awarded a $2.25M grant to support basic research in pancreatic cancer, a devastating disease with over 38,400 deaths expected in the US in 2013. Young researchers will receive $90,000 per year for three years to conduct research related to pancreatic cancer.
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.
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 Research Foundation has awarded 30 student fellowships to investigate digestive diseases. Eight high school students have received $2,500 each for 10-week research projects. Undergraduates and medical students will receive up to $3,000 each for a 10-week research project.
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.
A new grant will fund research into the relationship between diet and specific microbes, genes, and colorectal cancer. The study aims to associate red meat intake with the gut microbiome on a population scale.
The American Gastroenterological Association has announced the inaugural AGA Investing in the Future Student Research Fellowship Award recipients, supporting underrepresented minority students in digestive disease and nutrition research. The program aims to stimulate an interest in gastroenterological research and provide students with...
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.
Research found pregnant women with mid to high levels of anti-tTG antibodies are at risk for having reduced fetal weight and birth weight. Fetuses of women with positive anti-tTG weighed 16 grams less during the second trimester, while those with intermediate anti-tTG levels were 53 grams lighter.
A study found that patients taking tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) antagonists are at risk of developing acute liver injury, with most cases involving autoimmunity or hepatocellular injury. The condition is typically resolved after discontinuing the drug, but some patients may experience recurrence.
Researchers are working to improve study design and sample collection to better understand the composition and effects of the gut microbiota. The American Gastroenterological Association hosted a World Summit on Gut Microbiota For Health, where experts discussed future research directions.
Functional bowel disorders affect 50% of patients consulting a gastroenterologist. Recent research suggests that gut microbiota plays a significant role in these conditions. The AGA reports on the latest findings and potential therapeutic avenues.
Fecal microbiota transplantation has been shown to be highly effective in treating recurrent Clostridium difficile infections, with over 90% of patients being cured within a short period. The treatment offers a rapidly acting alternative to standard antibiotic treatments.
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.
Children born prematurely are at increased risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic exposure to acid reflux. The study found that being small for gestational age or having a short duration of gestation also increases the risk of esophagitis.
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.
The American Gastroenterological Association and other GI societies have issued updated guidelines for colonoscopy surveillance after screening and polypectomy. These recommendations support previous guidelines, addressing areas such as the need to repeat colonoscopies every 10 years for average-risk patients with a clean exam result.
People with AIDS are at increased risk for developing esophageal and stomach carcinoma, as well as non-Hodgkin lymphomas. The study found that those with AIDS had a 69% increased risk of esophageal cancer and a 53% increased risk of lower stomach cancer.
A study found that only 31.1% of moderate-to-severe IBD patients would qualify for biologic trial participation due to strict inclusion criteria. The study highlights the need for more pragmatic approaches to capture real-world treatment effects.
A large double-blind study found that over 80% of children with moderate to severe Crohn's disease responded to adalimumab within a month. Approximately 34% of patients were in clinical remission after six months, and 28.4% remained in remission after one year.
A recent study found that most celiac disease patients do not receive adequate medical follow-up, which can lead to non-compliance with a gluten-free diet. The study suggests that gastroenterologists need to improve communication with patients to ensure timely follow-up care and improve outcomes in celiac disease.
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.
A six-food elimination diet significantly improves symptoms in adult patients with eosinophilic esophagitis, reducing inflammation and improving digestion. The study identified specific food triggers that cause symptoms like heartburn and difficulty swallowing.
The AGA Research Foundation awards 11 high school students $2,500 grants to perform digestive disease or nutrition research for a minimum of 10 weeks. The program aims to stimulate interest in gastroenterological research careers and has identified nearly 223 students since its creation.
The American Gastroenterological Association honors outstanding contributions and achievements in gastroenterology through its prestigious recognition awards. The AGA presents several awards, including the Julius Friedenwald Medal, William Beaumont Prize, Distinguished Educator Award, and more.
The American Gastroenterological Association will showcase innovative data and advancements in treating gastrointestinal (GI) disorders during the Digestive Disease Week 2012. The presentation of exciting, cutting-edge information will help physicians diagnose and treat GI disorders more effectively.
This special issue of Gastroenterology focuses on the latest progress made in viral hepatitis research and care, including new diagnostic tools, therapies, and prevention strategies. Classic review articles and expert commentaries address critical unresolved issues and fundamental questions for the future.
A recent study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that GERD-related inflammation may contribute to the development of esophageal cancer. Researchers analyzed data from over 33,000 patients with GERD and found a significant increase in esophageal cancer incidence among those with erosive reflux disease.
A study found that patients with inflammatory bowel disease and other gastrointestinal disorders receive significant doses of diagnostic radiation. Alternative, radiation-free imaging options are available, but evidence-based guidelines on reducing radiation exposure are still needed.
A new study found that children who experienced general trauma, physical punishment, and emotional abuse are more likely to develop irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in adulthood. Emotional abuse was the strongest predictor of IBS, with a significant association observed mainly in women.
A new study suggests that fecal transplantation is clearly better than any other treatment for recurrent Clostridium difficile infection. The procedure showed an outstanding result in a patient group unresponsive to other treatment methods, with no serious adverse events observed during a one-year period.
A new study published in Gastroenterology reveals that Barrett's esophagus patients who smoke are twice as likely to develop esophageal cancer. Tobacco smoking emerged as the strongest lifestyle risk factor for cancer progression in this patient group.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that IBD travelers are not at a higher risk of contracting intestinal infections when visiting developing or tropical countries. Traveling during clinical remission can significantly reduce the risk of illness, according to lead author Shomron Ben-Horin.
A global study on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) reveals increasing incidence and prevalence worldwide, particularly in developing countries. The study found that IBD affects individuals in their most productive years of life, resulting in significant healthcare costs.
Chronic abdominal pain has seen a significant rise in opioid prescriptions, driven by factors such as campaigns to recognize pain as the "fifth vital sign". The use of opioids for non-cancer chronic pain is supported by limited evidence and can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms and worsen abdominal pain.
Certain IBD patients may have an increased risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer, particularly those on thiopurine immunosuppressants. Researchers emphasize the need for dermatologic screening and sun protection in these patients.
A new study found that psychological factors, such as pain catastrophisizing and anxiety sensitivity, affect IBS symptoms but not overall severity. GI symptoms like pain, bloating, and defecation explain most of the variance in IBS severity scores.
A new study suggests that patients with certain types of abdominal pain may benefit more from gallbladder surgery. Researchers found that episodic pain occurring during the evening or at night, lasting less than 24 hours, and having a specific pattern of symptoms can predict improved relief after surgery.
A new study found that neuroticism is linked to increased brain activity during pain anticipation in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This heightened emotional response may exacerbate chronic pain conditions. Physicians should consider a patient's mental state when determining treatment regimens.