Articles tagged with Gastroenterology
Researchers found that Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT) using capsules has a cure rate of 86% at one month and 81% at two months for recurrent CDI, comparable to colonoscopic FMT. Patient selection is key to optimizing FMT success.
A new drug capsule developed at MIT may be able to replace injections for biologic drugs by tunneling through the mucus barrier in the small intestine. The capsule's robotic cap spins and displaces mucus, allowing drugs to pass into cells lining the intestine.
A new study conducted by researchers from Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital shows that fecal transplantation is an effective cure for life-threatening intestinal infections, with a cure rate of over 90%. The treatment was found to be far superior to the standard treatment, which typically consists of antibiotics.
Medically underserved communities face significant barriers to endoscopy-related COVID-19 testing, potentially worsening health care disparities. Researchers recommend addressing these challenges by mailing test kits or offering rapid testing to mitigate delays in diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal illnesses.
A recent study published in the journal Gut found that gay men are more than twice as likely to develop inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) than heterosexual men who engage in high-risk sexual activity. The study's lead author notes that this finding will open a new field of research into gastrointestinal inflammatory conditions.
A recent study found that private equity firms acquiring physician-owned medical practices increase patient volume and billing for visits, raising concerns about the corporatization of healthcare. The study examined 578 physician practices acquired by private equity firms between 2016 and 2020.
Researchers developed an algorithm to identify different regions within tumors using nearly 6,500 digital slide images. The algorithm can predict recurrence-free survival and help guide therapy for patients with colon cancer.
A large-scale clinical study reveals high cumulative rebleeding rates among patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. The study identified overt OGIB, anticoagulants, and liver cirrhosis as independent predictors of rebleeding, emphasizing the importance of long-term follow-ups.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have developed a new method to identify which human gut microbes contribute to inflammatory diseases. By analyzing protein levels in blood serum, the team discovered specific bacteria that trigger immune activation and inflammation.
Researchers found that using the drug erlotinib, which blocks a specific cancer pathway, led to a 30 percent reduction in polyps formed in patients with FAP. The study's findings suggest potential ways to prevent colorectal cancer in the general population at an earlier stage.
A new study suggests that acetate produced by the liver diffuses into the intestines, supporting bacterial growth and causing imbalanced microbiota. This imbalance does not appear to play a major role in alcoholic liver disease risk.
Researchers found that orally administering gold nanoclusters to mice with colitis eliminated reactive oxygen species, increased antioxidant enzymes, and inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines without side effects. The nanoclusters also showed benefits over natural enzymes used in traditional IBD treatments.
Researchers from Tianjin Medical University General Hospital review sarcopenic obesity's impact on liver disease, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis. The study aims to clarify the pathogenesis of sarcopenic obesity and identify potential therapeutic avenues.
A new study found that opioids like morphine can cause gastric inflammation due to increased acid secretion and delayed gastric emptying. Treatment with naloxone or proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole may provide gastroprotection, improving pain management and reducing side effects.
A study published in Cell Reports found that a rhythmic small intestinal microbiome prevents obesity and type 2 diabetes in mice. The researchers used mouse models to explore how diet and feeding patterns affect the gut microbiome and its impact on host health, particularly with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers found high mortality rates in the Midwest/northeastern Great Lakes region and lower risk counties in western/southwestern areas. The study highlights regions warranting further investigation and preventive interventions to address the increasing burden of young-onset colorectal cancer.
A new study found that children with immune-mediated inflammatory disease have a significantly higher risk of premature death, particularly from cancer and suicide. The research, which analyzed data from over 12,000 patients, highlights the need for early cancer screening and mental health support in pediatric care.
The American Gastroenterological Association has released new clinical guidelines outlining a personalized approach to treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. The guidelines recommend prioritizing lifestyle modifications and dietary changes, such as increasing fiber or following the low-FODMAP diet, before seeking advanced tr...
A study found that COVID-19 leads to progressive cholestasis, cholestatic liver failure, and secondary sclerosing cholangitis in 15% of patients with pre-existing liver disease. These patients often require intensive care and may experience irreversible bile duct damage.
The American Gastroenterological Association has released a series of evidence-based position statements guiding the creation of a national colorectal cancer screening approach. The goal is to eliminate barriers and reduce mortality by ensuring equitable access to CRC screening programs for all individuals.
A new study has found that nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in children significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study, published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, revealed that among 892 children with NAFLD, 6.6% developed type 2 diabetes, with the incidence rate rising by 3% annually.
Researchers found that liver transplants from drug overdose donors increased by 26% during the pandemic, while overall solid organ transplant use from overdose donors rose by 31.2%. This trend suggests that a surge in organ donations from overdose deaths helped stabilize liver transplant numbers despite COVID-19 disruptions.
Research found a significant increase in esophageal cancer and Barrett's esophagus among middle-aged adults, with rates nearly doubling between 2012 and 2019. The study suggests an urgent need for earlier endoscopic screening in this age group, particularly those with multiple risk factors.
Researchers discovered that lean individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases compared to those who are overweight or obese. Despite lower rates of other health conditions, lean patients with NAFLD exhibited increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease.
A study of early-onset colon cancer found that five-year survival rates remained lower for Blacks and Hispanics compared to Whites, despite improvements in White survival over a 20-year span. The disparities persisted even among younger adults with localized disease.
Patients who use cannabis require higher levels of sedation during gastric endoscopies than non-users, according to research. Cannabis use is associated with increased odds of requiring higher total sedation during gastroscopy but not colonoscopy.
A new study found that exposure to dogs, particularly from ages 5 to 15, was linked to healthy gut permeability and balance in the gut microbiome. Additionally, growing up in a large family with three or more siblings may also provide protection against Crohn's disease by influencing microbiome composition.
A new study published in Gastroenterology found that using computer-aided detection during colonoscopies can significantly increase the detection of adenoma, or cancerous and precancerous polyps. The research, led by Dr. Aasma Shaukat, showed a 27% increase in the overall rate of detection in average-risk patients. This technology has ...
A study of 2.3 million patient records found that antibiotic use was associated with a higher risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease in older adults. The risk increased substantially with each course of antibiotics, with patients who received five or more courses being over 2.3 times more likely to be diagnosed with the condition.
A study has found that patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are six times more likely to have had gallstone disease within the year prior to diagnosis than non-cancer patients. This association suggests that gallstones could be a warning sign for this aggressive and deadly cancer.
A new study has identified persistent racial and ethnic disparities in five-year survival rates for younger adults with colorectal cancer. White patients had a higher five-year relative survival rate compared to Black, Hispanic, and Asian patients, regardless of disease stage.
A new study suggests that growing up with dogs and in large families may lower the risk of inflammatory bowel disease. Exposure to dogs, particularly between ages 5-15, was linked to healthy gut permeability and a balanced immune response, which may help protect against Crohn's disease.
Patients who use cannabis require more drugs than non-users during gastric endoscopies, according to a study. Researchers found that cannabis use was associated with increased odds of requiring higher sedation levels during gastroscopy but not colonoscopy.
A new smartphone app using AI technology has been found to be as accurate as expert gastroenterologists in characterizing stool specimens. The app's ability to provide detailed descriptions of constipation, diarrhea, and normal stools surpasses that of patient reports.
A new perspective published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition recommends strategies to prevent future shortages and regain public trust. Strategies include a thorough, public process to instill confidence in safe production, assessment of supply system factors, and evaluation of business practices.
A study of 2.3 million patient records found that antibiotic use was associated with a higher risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease in seniors, particularly those who received multiple courses. The risk increased substantially with each course of antibiotics prescribed.
A new study found that lean individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease compared to those who are overweight or obese. Despite having lower risks for other metabolic and cardiovascular conditions, lean patients with NAFLD were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
Research suggests gallstone disease may be an early indicator of pancreatic cancer, with patients having gallstones nearly six times more likely to develop the disease. This association could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, potentially improving survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients.
Adults aged 45-64 experienced a nearly doubled rate of esophageal cancer and a 50% increase in Barrett's esophagus between 2012 and 2019. Researchers recommend more frequent screening for middle-aged patients with multiple risk factors.
Researchers found microbes influence which genes are used for fat digestion and absorption, leading to changes in epithelial cells. The study also showed microbes promote lipid absorption and impact systemic processes like weight gain.
Researchers from the University of Minnesota Medical School found a link between diet type and hydrogen sulfide production in the gut. An animal-based diet was shown to increase toxic gas production, while fiber-containing foods were beneficial to gut health.
The US Multisociety Task Force on Colorectal Cancer recommends genetic evaluation and personalized surveillance plans for patients with hamartomatous polyps. Genetic testing is critical in cancer prevention, allowing for tailored cancer surveillance to prevent progression and save lives.
A novel pancreatic carcinogenesis model in wild-type rats was established using the pancreas-targeted selective hydrodynamic gene delivery method. The KRAS G12D-induced lesions showed malignant transformation and developed into pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma within five weeks.
A study published in Gastroenterology found that artificial intelligence reduced the rate of missed precancerous polyps in colorectal cancer screening by twofold compared to standard colonoscopy. The AI detection method identified smaller, flatter polyps and improved false negative rates.
Researchers found daily e-cigarette use altered inflammatory markers in the brain, colon, and heart, while lungs showed gene expression changes; flavors influenced organ responses to infections like COVID-19.
A new device made from silicone and liquid metal, with knotted cords, measures pressure in the digestive tract similar to high-resolution manometry. The invention brings down cost and makes it easier to produce and deploy, offering a cheaper alternative for diagnosing dysmotility disorders.
Researchers found that female mice produce more of the FPR2 protein, which helps prevent NAFLD, and that estrogen mediates its production. This discovery highlights the need for sex-balanced animal experiments and could lead to novel treatments and gender-based therapies for NASH
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine found that certain Candida albicans yeast strains produce a potent toxin called candidalysin, which damages immune cells and triggers pro-inflammatory responses. The study suggests a possible way to personalize treatments for IBD patients by targeting these high-damaging strains.
Researchers discovered that the levels of Piezo2 decrease with age and its removal from gut serotonin cells slows down gut motility in mice, causing constipation. This finding could be a contributing factor to age-related constipation and provide a path to treatment.
A meta-analysis of 280,660 cases of colorectal cancer and 14,139 cases of adenoma found that taller individuals have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer and precancerous colon polyps. The study suggests that adults over 4 inches (10 cm) above the average U.S. height may be at increased risk.
A regionwide, structured colorectal cancer screening program eliminated disparities in colorectal cancer death rates between Black and white Kaiser Permanente members. Organized screening outreach markedly increased screening rates and led to significant decreases in incidence and death rates.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has issued new clinical practice guidelines on systemic therapy for HCC, emphasizing the importance of consulting a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals. The guidelines provide specific patient scenarios and treatment options to help hepatologists make informed decisions.
A new scoring system, MIAAH, accurately identifies patients at highest risk of death and those likely to survive from alcohol-associated hepatitis. The tool incorporates laboratory variables and demographic data, offering a valuable prognostic model for clinicians.
A team of researchers discovered that chance plays a significant role in the formation of individual gut microbiomes, with genetic, diet, and environmental factors influencing the odds of colonization. The study's findings have major implications for treatments like fecal transplants and probiotics.
Scientists have identified a key receptor in the digestive tract that triggers pain and inflammation in the colon. By blocking this receptor from entering cells, researchers found significant reduction in pain and inflammation. This discovery holds promise for treating inflammatory bowel disease.
University of Limerick professor J Calvin Coffey's groundbreaking research reveals the fundamental order of the abdomen, organizing all contents into two compartments. This simplicity explains behaviors of viral and bacterial infections, cancer, and other diseases.
A study of 1,000 patients found that some recoverees from hepatitis C still face liver cancer risks after treatment. Researchers propose a 2-step strategy combining FIB-4 and transient elastography/ultrasound to predict high-risk cases.
Proton pump inhibitors are underutilized in high-risk patients due to knowledge gaps and barriers among specialties. Multi-component interventions can improve guideline-based use to prevent upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago identified changes in the gut microbiome that can lead to gestational diabetes. They found a specific metabolite, kynurenine, that is increased during pregnancy and contributes to insulin resistance.
Researchers at MIT have developed an all-in-one approach to diabetes treatment, streamlining the process of blood glucose measurement and insulin injection. The new device can automate procedures such as pricking skin, collecting blood, calculating glucose levels, and dispensing insulin, reducing the need for multiple devices and makin...