Articles tagged with Gastroenterology
A phase II trial found that PD-1 blockade with dostarlimab induced complete tumor clearance and resolved the need for surgery in patients with early-stage mismatch repair-deficient cancers. This approach showed promise for preserving organs, improving quality of life, and potentially increasing survival.
A 20-year initiative that offered flexible screening options at a major health system doubled screening rates and cut cancer incidence by a third, halving deaths. The program eliminated racial disparities in outcomes, with Black patients' deaths declining from 52.2 to 23.5 per 100,000.
A study published in Journal of Proteome Research reveals that inflammation and aging contribute to the development of non-viral liver cancer. Researchers analyzed gene expression and metabolites in normal and affected samples, identifying potential therapeutic targets for chemoprevention.
The study directly compared Droplet-based scRNA (D-scRNA) and Picowell-based scRNA (P-scRNA) platforms for analyzing human mucosal biopsies. D-scRNA provides more detailed insights, but requires resources and may introduce contamination. P-scRNA is gentler, more resource-efficient, but less effective in capturing rare cell types.
A study using machine learning models found that people with IBD are at risk for premature death when developing other chronic health conditions earlier in life. Chronic conditions like arthritis, hypertension, and mood disorders were common causes of death among those with IBD.
A new clinical guideline from the American Gastroenterological Association suggests that artificial intelligence-assisted colonoscopy may improve polyp detection rates, but its impact on preventing colorectal cancer remains uncertain. The guideline recommends a cautious approach to widespread adoption, emphasizing the need for further ...
The Asia-Pacific region's H. pylori treatment practices show a growing consensus on primary and secondary prevention, but differences in antimicrobial resistance and medical resources persist. Establishing uniform standards for gastric cancer prevention will be crucial to addressing these disparities.
Patients with severe ischemic stroke show impaired gastric motility and autonomic dysfunction, with reduced normal gastric slow waves and increased sympathetic activity. These findings suggest a link between gastric myoelectrical rhythms and autonomic function in ischemic stroke.
The American Gastroenterological Association has chosen 16 exceptional gastroenterologists and hepatologists for its Future Leaders program. The selected doctors will work on career development projects over 18 months, focusing on the future of the digestive diseases field.
Researchers found that semisynthetic bile acid NorUDCA inhibits pro-inflammatory T helper 17 cells and promotes anti-inflammatory regulatory T cells in the intestine. This could lead to new therapies for inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
A cross-sectional survey revealed high costs, inadequate training, and poor financing as major challenges to gastrointestinal endoscopy practice in Nigeria. Locally developed innovations have eased the practice, preventing it from collapsing.
Repeated esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy enhance lesion detection, particularly in cases with active bleeding or poor visualization. The diagnostic accuracy of these procedures increases patient outcomes.
Children who frequently miss school due to abdominal complaints are more likely to have gut-brain axis disorders like IBS, which can be missed by medical tests. The study found that frequent absences were nearly five times more likely to be caused by functional GI disorders than specific illnesses.
The updated recommendations from the US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer aim to achieve a benchmark of 90% exams with adequate bowel preparation. The guidelines focus on optimizing bowel preparation before, during, and after colonoscopy, including patient education, dietary restrictions, and choice of preparation agent.
A Japanese version of the Esophageal Hypervigilance and Anxiety Scale has been developed and validated for clinical use in Japan. The scale, which evaluates symptom-specific hypervigilance and anxiety for esophageal symptoms, showed validity comparable to standardized mental and physical health surveys.
A long-term study found that Roux-en-Y gastric bypass outperforms sleeve gastrectomy in treating obesity, with patients losing more excess body mass index. The Swiss Multicenter Bypass or Sleeve Study demonstrated the superiority of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass over sleeve gastrectomy for patient weight loss.
A blood test has been found to identify personalized dietary triggers for patients with irritable bowel syndrome, resulting in improved abdominal pain relief. The study showed that 59.6% of participants who removed trigger foods experienced significant reduction in abdominal pain compared to 42.2% in the control group.
A study from Weill Cornell Medicine found that over two-thirds of US counties have no gastroenterologist, leaving millions without access to care. The analysis highlights the need for policy interventions and strategies to expand the workforce in underserved areas.
Jeremy L. Davis, MD, has been appointed as the new Surgical Oncology Lead for UMGCCC and Chief of the Division of Surgical Oncology in the Department of Surgery at UMSOM. Dr. Davis is a nationally recognized surgical oncologist with expertise in gastric cancer research.
A new study from Aarhus University Hospital shows that fecal microbiota transplantation can be a safe and effective treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes and gastroenteropathy. The treatment has significantly improved quality of life and symptoms for participants, offering hope to those with debilitating symptoms.
A study by MedUni Vienna identified a promising therapeutic approach for metabolic liver diseases by targeting fat metabolism inhibition, promoting liver health and reducing liver fat, inflammation and fibrotic remodeling. The approach involves blocking ATGL, an enzyme playing a central role in lipid metabolism.
Researchers discovered a novel combination of plasma-based biomarkers that can predict liver fibrosis in Latino adolescents with obesity. The study found that dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) and alanine transaminase (ALT) were significantly associated with fibrosis, suggesting a potential low-cost, noninvasive screening tool.
Three Sanford Burnham Prebys faculty members, David A. Brenner, Randal J. Kaufman, and Tariq M. Rana, are recognized for their significant scientific influence. Their publications have been cited top 1% globally by number of citations.
A survey of GI fellows found that gastroenterologists providing inpatient care improve education through enhanced endoscopy teaching and longitudinal feedback. This model is expected to create more robust fellowship programs across the US, combining benefits of both GI Hospitalist and non-GI Hospitalist faculty.
Scientists at UMC Utrecht developed a new technology to isolate and study gut bacteria recognized by IgA antibodies, which are associated with various diseases. The next-generation IgA-SEQ method allows for high-throughput identification and analysis of these immunostimulatory bacteria, shedding light on their role in health and disease.
A new multi-specialty guidance provides clarity on the usage of GLP-1 receptor agonists before elective surgery and gastrointestinal endoscopies. For most patients, these medications can be safely continued, but individual risk factors for complications should be assessed prior to surgery.
Researchers found that using a multi-step strategy with less-invasive devices can identify patients with Barrett's oesophagus before an endoscopy. This approach is promising for cost-effective screening, which could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of oesophageal cancer.
Genetic variations in carbohydrate-active enzymes may predict which IBS patients benefit from low-carb diets, offering potential personalized treatment options. A study of 250 IBS patients found that those with defective genes showed marked improvement on a low-FODMAP diet.
A study found that HLA-DRB1*01:03 is associated with severe ulcerative colitis, requiring major operations and systemic corticosteroid use. The allele has previously been linked to ulcerative colitis incidence, supporting earlier genetic studies.
The 2024 Chinese consensus on radiofrequency therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease standardizes treatment approaches by outlining essential surgical indications, contraindications, and postoperative management. The consensus also highlights the importance of precise energy application to the lower esophagus and cardia.
Advanced endoscopy combined with AI and digital pathology offers a deeper understanding of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). This leads to more accurate diagnoses and improved patient outcomes.
The new guideline updates treatment recommendations for Helicobacter pylori infection, shifting away from proton pump inhibitor-clarithromycin triple therapy. Bismuth quadruple therapy and other alternatives are now recommended for treatment-naïve patients.
A survey of 10,000 Japanese adults found that belching disorders are more prevalent in men who drink alcohol and take acid reflux medications. The study also identified factors such as eating until feeling full and low chewing frequency as significant contributors to the development of belching disorders.
The article discusses current endoscopic treatment approaches for IBD-related complications, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of techniques like EBD and EMR. These methods offer minimally invasive options but require expertise and careful patient selection.
New studies suggest a simplified, less restrictive low FODMAP diet may be effective for managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The alternative 'FODMAP-simple' diet restricts only fructans and galacto-oligosaccharides without restricting other FODMAP groups. This approach may reduce symptoms and improve patient adherence to the diet.
Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a disabling condition affecting up to 2% of the population, with most patients experiencing years of diagnostic delays. CVS can be managed through lifestyle modifications and medications, with timely diagnoses crucial to prevent complications.
A large-scale study confirms the rising incidence of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) in Japan, with a significant increase in cases between 2005 and 2022. The study found an incidence rate of 2.82 per 100,000 person-years and a prevalence rate of 10.68 per 100,000 people.
A study by Nanyang Technological University found that eight in 10 gastroenterologists in the Asia-Pacific region accept and trust AI-powered tools for diagnosing colorectal polyps. The study also highlights the need for more research into what influences doctors' acceptance of AI in their medical practice.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a possible new pathway to treat colorectal cancer by targeting the NF-kB-inducing kinase (NIK) protein. The study, led by Irving Coy Allen, identifies changes in a significant signaling pathway in human patients and presents potential targets for therapeutics.
A robotic device mimics natural esophageal and intestinal movement to aid digestion, helping patients with blockages caused by tumors or stents. The device has the potential to improve quality of life for the aging population.
A recent NTU Singapore study found that eight in ten gastroenterologists accept and trust the use of AI-powered tools in diagnosing and assessing colorectal polyps. The study, which surveyed 165 doctors in the Asia-Pacific region, also found that more experienced gastroenterologists perceived a lower risk of AI tools.
A meta-analysis of 15 randomized studies found that patients taking GLP-1 medications experienced only mild differences in gastric emptying, delaying solid food by about 36 minutes. The findings suggest it may be safe to continue these medications before surgery without a high risk of aspiration.
Research presented at Digestive Disease Week 2024 reveals the risks associated with weight-loss drugs and alpha-gal syndrome. Studies found that GLP-1 weight loss drugs may increase the risk of biliary disease and gastroparesis, while an alpha-gal syndrome diagnosis is linked to GI symptoms in females.
Research highlights patient comfort with AI in endoscopy and liability concerns. A new study found that robotic gallbladder removal is associated with lower odds of conversion to open surgery and hospitalization.
Studies reveal distinct differences in oral microbiomes of patients with gastric cancer, premalignant conditions, and healthy controls. Researchers also found a surge in colorectal cancer incidence among young patients under 45, while late-stage gallbladder cancer is on the rise in non-Hispanic Blacks.
A recent study found that patients seen by female gastroenterologists have significantly less healthcare utilization than those seen by male providers. Female patients, in particular, experience lower rates of emergency department visits and primary care office visits after receiving initial consultations from female gastroenterologists.
The American Gastroenterological Association recommends considering endoscopic eradication therapy for patients with low-grade dysplasia after discussing risks and benefits. For patients with high-grade dysplasia, the AGA suggests removing abnormal pre-cancerous cells to reduce esophageal cancer mortality.
A study led by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that offering patients a choice between colonoscopy and at-home tests more than doubled colorectal cancer screening rates. Approximately 10% of participants received colonoscopies, while around 11% completed at-home fecal immunochemical tests.
The study, conducted by Children's Hospital Colorado, found improvements in symptoms and quality of life for children diagnosed with celiac disease after participating in a mass screening program. Mass screening for pediatric celiac disease may become more common in the US, following similar conclusions drawn from European studies.
Researchers identified distinct differences between oral microbiomes of healthy patients and those with gastric cancer or pre-cancerous conditions. The findings suggest that oral bacteria could serve as biomarkers for gastric cancer risk, potentially leading to practice-changing tests and guidelines.
A new endoscopic procedure has been developed to reduce production of ghrelin, a key hunger hormone, by ablating the stomach lining. This process resulted in a 7.7% body weight loss and a 40% reduction in fasting ghrelin levels in a six-month trial involving 10 female patients with obesity.
Researchers have proposed a new concept called fastest recovery after surgery (FRAS) to expedite recovery in patients undergoing elective major gastrointestinal surgery. The approach has shown zero complications, reduced hospital stay duration, and improved comfort and satisfaction compared to traditional ERAS protocols.
A new study reveals that chronic hepatitis B is globally undertreated, especially among women and Asian minorities in the West. The research highlights the need for targeted outreach to reduce new infections and deaths, with oral antiviral therapy being a lifesaving but underutilized treatment option.
A significant gap exists in the colorectal screening process, particularly after a positive stool-based test, where timely follow-up with colonoscopy is often lacking. This can lead to reduced incidence and mortality rates from colorectal cancer if addressed through education and quality measures.
A study of over 7,500 US adults found that higher abdominal obesity, measured by waist circumference-to-height ratio, was associated with a higher risk of fecal incontinence. The researchers suggest that this may be due to increased intra-abdominal pressure and visceral fat-related inflammation.
A study published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology found that dietary adjustments, such as a low FODMAP diet and low-carbohydrate diets, resulted in significantly reduced IBS symptoms for over seven out of ten patients. In contrast, medication-based treatment showed fewer symptom improvements.
A new testing protocol combining clinical history with multiple home stool tests could significantly speed up diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by reducing the need for unnecessary colonoscopies. Serial faecal calprotectin tests were found to strongly predict possible IBD, Crohn's Disease, and Ulcerative Colitis.
A new study shows that a massive effort to reduce the overuse of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) led to a nearly 30% reduction in prescriptions, but also resulted in some veterans missing out on protective use. The intervention, which imposed limits on PPI prescription size and refills, was carried out in one region of the Veterans Healt...
New data suggest that blood-based colorectal cancer screening tests could lead to more cases and deaths than established methods, despite improving outcomes for unscreened individuals. The tests are predicted to be less effective and more costly, making them unsuitable replacements for current screening programs.
A new study has discovered that Streptococcus anginosus bacteria play a significant role in causing stomach cancer. The research showed that S. anginosus infection led to gastric inflammation, cell damage, and the growth of stomach cancer cells, doubling tumour size and weight in some cases.