Articles tagged with Gastroenterology
A group of international scientists has developed a new definition for synbiotics, outlining a mixture of live microorganisms and selectively utilized substrates that confer a health benefit on the host. The definition aims to clarify scientific ambiguity and provide a foundation for science-based claims about synbiotic health benefits.
Researchers found patients in multidisciplinary clinics experienced greater symptom relief and improved wellbeing compared to standard care. Multidisciplinary clinics showed a 84% improvement rate, while standard care had a 57% improvement rate.
A new study from Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital found that three hours of weekly strength training combined with protein supplements can break the vicious circle of muscle loss in patients with cirrhosis. This leads to improved muscle strength, size, functional capacity, and quality of life.
The American Gastroenterological Association recommends against using probiotics to treat most digestive diseases due to a lack of strong evidence supporting their efficacy. However, certain probiotic formulations may benefit patients in specific situations, such as preventing Clostridioides difficile infection or managing pouchitis.
A study of over 73,000 people in 33 countries found that four out of ten adults worldwide have functional gastrointestinal disorders. The disorders, which include symptoms like heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome, were more prevalent in women and associated with lower quality of life.
Recent studies on NAFLD have made significant progress in understanding the risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of the condition. The latest research emphasizes the importance of gut microbiota modulation to improve severity, as well as the role of hepatic inflammatory pathways in driving comorbidities.
A new study analyzed data from an international registry of 528 IBD patients with COVID-19, finding that increasing age, comorbidities, and corticosteroids are associated with severe illness. The study also suggests that steroid-sparing treatments may be crucial for maintaining remission in IBD patients during the pandemic.
Researchers at McMaster University have established a strong association between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and celiac disease. The study found a nine-fold increased risk of IBD in patients with a previous diagnosis of celiac disease, highlighting the importance of proper screening and treatment for both conditions.
A new special issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology highlights major advances in IBD treatment. The issue provides comprehensive updates on algorithmic treatments to reduce morbidity and emphasizes the importance of treating beyond symptom relief.
The American Gastroenterological Association has published new evidence-based recommendations on the GI and liver manifestations of COVID-19. Key findings include a lower prevalence of GI symptoms in outpatients (4.0%), but also highlight atypical presentations, such as diarrhea preceding other symptoms by days.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has released new guidelines for the management of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a chronic inflammatory disease of the esophagus triggered by allergens. Topical steroids are recommended as a first-line treatment, while proton pump inhibition, diet therapy, and esophageal dilation are ...
The American Gastroenterological Association has released official guidance for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the AGA, patients with IBD should continue their medication, including scheduled infusions, and stop certain medications if they develop COVID-19 symptoms.
The American Gastroenterological Association has issued new COVID-19 guidelines recommending enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) for gastrointestinal procedures, including the use of N95 masks and double gloves. The guidelines aim to minimize the risk of infection transmission among healthcare workers and patients.
A precision medicine approach is necessary to determine which patients with diverticulitis need a colonoscopy. The editorial highlights 'sign posts' that support individualized decision-making and recommends their use. This approach uses healthcare resources wisely and provides better patient care.
Researchers identified predictive models for Crohn's disease, including a serum biomarker model with 76% accuracy, and explored the link between metal exposure in early life and IBD risk. Achieving deep remission early on was also associated with a significant decrease in long-term complications.
Key information for gastroenterologists and patients with chronic digestive conditions about COVID-19 includes prioritizing patient safety and maintaining medication regimens. Laboratory findings in COVID-19 patients also include liver function test abnormalities, emphasizing the importance of monitoring.
A study in The American Journal of Gastroenterology reveals that nearly half of COVID-19 patients in China presented with digestive symptoms like diarrhea and anorexia, which prolonged hospital stays and reduced recovery rates.
A study published in JPGN found that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase the risk of fractures in pediatric patients. The analysis showed a significantly higher fracture rate in children exposed to PPIs, with a 20% higher probability of fracture compared to non-exposed children.
Research published in Gastroenterology highlights GI symptoms and potential fecal transmission in coronavirus patients. Key findings include viral RNA detectable in stool and the virus shedding into the digestive system, raising concerns about fecal-oral transmission.
Experts provide a timeline for patients to be rechecked for colorectal cancer based on their initial colonoscopy and recommend the safest techniques to completely remove polyps. Screening is recommended to begin at age 50, with follow-up colonoscopies every 3-10 years depending on polyp size and removal.
The new clinical guideline provides recommendations for immunomodulators, biologics, and small molecules to bring on and maintain remission in adult outpatients with moderate to severe UC. It also suggests early use of biologics with or without immunomodulator therapy.
Gastric intestinal metaplasia is a marker associated with increased risk of gastric cancer, prompting the need for standardized clinical practice. The new AGA guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for testing H. pylori eradication and surveillance strategies.
A new study published in the UEG Journal found that young patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at a higher risk of developing severe viral infections. Clinically active IBD and immunomodulators used to treat the condition are identified as main drivers of infection, with thiopurines increasing the risk by six times.
A new study found that 18 drug categories extensively impact the taxonomic structure and metabolic potential of the gut microbiome. Researchers identified eight categories increasing antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. The changes could increase risk of intestinal infections, obesity, and other conditions linked to the gut microbiome.
A major study across 195 countries found that global death rates for pancreatic cancer and incidence rates for colorectal cancer increased by 10% between 1990 and 2017. The study also reported significant increases in cases of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and a rise in obesity-related risk factors for pancreatic cancer.
A new study confirms FMT is effective in treating IBS with high response rates and symptom improvements, but selecting the right donor is crucial for success. The study used a 'super-donor' to produce high rates of clinical response and marked symptom improvements in patients with IBS.
A study found that plant-based diets and Mediterranean diets are associated with high levels of friendly gut bacteria, aiding nutrient production and SCFA energy for cells lining the colon. Plant protein helps biosynthesis of vitamins and amino acids.
A new national poll suggests that older adults are hesitant to try virtual health visits due to concerns about technology and quality of care. Despite this, many (64%) would be interested in telehealth options if they became unexpectedly ill while traveling or needed follow-up on previous care.
A large registry-based study found that current scoring systems have moderate reliability in predicting severe liver disease risk. The study identified individuals with normal scores as being at a very low risk of developing severe liver disease, highlighting the need for new methods to detect those at higher risk.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new gel-like material that can create a stable cushion for more than an hour, reducing the risk of tearing the colon lining during polyp removal. This innovation could greatly improve the safety and effectiveness of colonoscopies.
A large, multi-year randomized trial found no evidence to support claims that PPIs cause serious health issues such as pneumonia, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and dementia. The study suggests that limiting prescriptions of PPI therapy is not appropriate due to the benefits outweighing the risks.
A study published at the 52nd Annual Meeting of ESPGHAN found that high fiber intake during pregnancy is linked to a decreased risk of childhood coeliac disease. The study, which assessed over 88,000 children, showed that mothers with higher fiber intake had lower rates of coeliac disease in their offspring.
A recent study published in Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that removing the gallbladder can reduce the risk of stroke by 40% in patients with gallstones. The study analyzed data from 310,712 patients and observed a lower risk regardless of age or medical conditions.
Research found that button batteries can cause gastric wall perforation and erosive injuries in 60% of cases, regardless of symptom presence or passage time. Clinicians should consider removing batteries promptly to avoid repeated ER visits and imaging.
A study published in Gastroenterology suggests that patients with IBS who have multiple intestinal and brain abnormalities experience more severe symptoms, making combination therapy a potential solution to improve treatment outcomes
A recent commentary suggests that treatment guidelines recommended by medical specialist organizations are more likely to lead to overdiagnosis, overtreatment, and increased healthcare costs. The authors argue that specialty bias and fee-for-service compensation models contribute to this issue.
Researchers have identified new pathways controlling inflammation in the gut and explored diet-based interventions to prevent C. difficile infections. Prebiotics may also help mitigate gastrointestinal toxicity from radiation treatment.
The American Gastroenterological Association has launched the AGA FORWARD Program to promote diversity in gastroenterology. The program's inaugural class of 10 Scholars includes underrepresented minority leaders who will receive mentorship and training to strengthen their research and management skills.
Studies highlight the importance of treating IBD as a whole person, including reproductive and mental health aspects. Patient-provider communication is key to improving health outcomes and addressing emotional exhaustion associated with IBD.
Studies presented at the Crohn's & Colitis Congress highlight advancements in treatments for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including JAK inhibitors and biologics targeting immune cell trafficking. These therapies show promise for effective and safe oral therapeutic options for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis.
The American Gastroenterological Association has announced the 2019 recipients of the annual recognition awards, honoring outstanding contributions to the field of gastroenterology. The award winners include John I. Allen, MD, MBA, AGAF; Harry B. Greenberg, MD; and Timothy C. Wang, MD, AGAF.
A national study is comparing three FDA-approved treatments for fecal incontinence: biofeedback therapy, inert injectable compounds, and pacemaker stimulation. The five-year study aims to determine which treatment is most effective and safe for patients with moderate to severe fecal incontinence.
The American Gastroenterological Association has released a clinical care pathway to help women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) navigate family planning. The pathway emphasizes the importance of preconception planning, monitoring, and collaboration among healthcare providers to optimize outcomes.
The American Gastroenterological Association publishes a new clinical guideline for managing patients with mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis. The guidelines recommend the use of oral and topical 5-aminosalicylates, rectal corticosteroids, and oral budesonide to promote high-quality care. However, the use of biologic therapies and imm...
Researchers at Ohio State University found that using a toilet stool can help people with constipation, bloating, and incomplete bowel movements. The study showed that 71% of participants experienced faster bowel movements and 90% reported less straining.
This special issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology delves into the relationship between the gut microbiome and specific digestive diseases. Key findings include the role of the microbiome in inflammatory bowel disease, functional gastrointestinal diseases, colorectal cancer prevention, and pancreatic disease.
A global study found microplastics in every single stool sample from eight countries, with up to nine different types identified. The presence of microplastics may affect human health through bioaccumulation and transmission of toxic chemicals.
Research reveals a 6% annual increase in European colorectal cancer incidence rates among adults aged 20-39 years between 2008 and 2016. This trend is driven by increased risk factors such as sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and poor diets.
Opioid-induced constipation affects 40-60% of patients taking chronic opioid therapy. A new AGA guideline recommends starting with traditional laxatives as first-line agents, followed by PAMORA drugs if symptoms persist. These treatments aim to improve bowel symptoms without compromising pain relief.
The American Gastroenterological Association has launched a new initiative to foster opportunities for underrepresented minorities in gastroenterology research and career development. The program aims to provide training, mentoring, and leadership skills to promote diversity in the field.
A Mayo Clinic study found that specific gut bacteria, such as Phascolarctobacterium and Dialister, are associated with weight loss success and failure, respectively. The research suggests that individualized strategies may be needed to address the unique metabolic needs of each person.
A new study finds that video consultations between primary care physicians and specialists improve liver disease care and increase patient survival rates. Patients who participated in these consultations had a 54% higher survival rate compared to those without access to virtual consultations.
A study using oral-delayed release methylene blue during colonoscopy found a 56.3% detection rate for adenomas and carcinomas, nearly 9% higher than the standard of care. The tablet form reduces inconvenience and safety risks while improving adenoma detection rates.
A landmark study found that IBS patients who learned to control severe GI symptoms at home saw significant improvement, comparable to those treated with multiple clinic visits. The home-based behavioral treatment approach provided sustained relief for up to six months, overcoming a common barrier in rural healthcare.
The American Gastroenterological Association's new clinical guideline focuses on critical decisions made during initial management of acute pancreatitis. It recommends goal-directed fluid resuscitation, early oral feeding, and enteral versus parenteral nutrition to alter the course of disease and duration of hospitalization.
Boston University researcher Michelle T. Long has received a five-year, $1 million NIH grant to continue her research on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Her study will focus on the clinical and genetic traits associated with hepatic fibrosis in 3,500 participants.
Two cases of young children with severe esophageal injuries caused by swallowed lithium batteries from fidget spinners have been reported. The incidents highlight the potential danger of button batteries in children's toys, particularly those not specifically designed for kids.
Researchers have made breakthroughs in IBD treatment with the approval of a new antibiotic and the use of Janus kinase inhibitors. These advancements aim to improve outcomes for patients who currently lack effective treatment options.
Studies show that home infusions can decrease infusion burden for selected patients and are cost-effective. Telemedicine may also improve outcomes but increases healthcare utilization. Urgent care access and patient education also lead to improved clinical outcomes and satisfaction.
Research presented at the Crohn's & Colitis Congress provides guidance for physicians to enhance IBD patient care. Studies show that better management of anemia improves overall outcomes, while IBD patients need better understanding of CRC screening intervals.