Articles tagged with Gastroenterology
The AGA FMT National Registry is the largest planned FMT study, tracking 4,000 patients for 10 years. The registry aims to provide a wealth of data on FMT's effectiveness and long-term effects, helping advance research and improve treatment outcomes.
A population-based study found a 22% reduction in stomach cancer risk among those aged 60 and over who received antibiotic-based treatment for H. pylori infection compared to the general population. The study suggests that treating this type of bacterial infection in older adults can help reduce their risk of developing gastric cancer.
A new AI-assisted endoscopic system has been shown to automatically identify colorectal adenomas during colonoscopy, demonstrating a sensitivity of 94% and specificity of 79%. The system enables real-time optical biopsy, allowing for the complete resection of adenomatous polyps and preventing unnecessary polypectomy.
A study of 13,864 participants found no convincing evidence linking PPI use to increased dementia risk. The research suggests that PPIs are safe for patients who require them for long-term treatment, and benefits may outweigh risks.
The task force ranked tests into three tiers according to the strength of the recommendation for average-risk people. Colonoscopy is highly sensitive for cancer and precancerous lesions, while fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is non-invasive and lower-cost but must be repeated annually. The new guidelines also recommend starting scre...
A new study published in Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that consuming unsaturated fat can lead to fatty liver disease, contrary to its previously touted health benefits. The research used mice fed diets supplemented with either saturated or unsaturated fat, revealing the latter can cause liver damage.
Researchers found that prebiotic fiber supplementation reduced annual projected body weight increase in overweight and obese children by nearly triple, compared to a placebo. The study also showed specific gut bacterial shifts with prebiotic intervention.
A recent study reveals that many children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are not meeting the recommended daily intake of calcium and vitamin D. Experts warn that this can lead to poor bone health, development issues, and increased risk of permanent height deficits.
Researchers identified a new test to predict the severity of IBD in children based on faecal microbiota profiles. The study found that children with more extensive IBD had distinct gut microbiota profiles, including higher levels of Clostridiales and Proteobacteria.
A study presented at the ESPGHAN conference warns that young children on a vegan diet without proper medical and dietary advice may experience vitamin B12, calcium, zinc, and high-quality protein deficiencies. These deficiencies can lead to devastating health effects, including irreversible cognitive damage and death.
A study finds that gluten-free items have a significantly higher energy content and different nutritional composition compared to their gluten-containing counterparts. This could impact children's growth and increase the risk of childhood obesity.
A University at Buffalo study found that patient satisfaction among IBS patients is influenced by demographic, GI, and psychological factors beyond the quality of care. The researchers discovered that reassurance from gastroenterologists, rather than diagnostic tests, drives patient satisfaction in this population.
A new ambulatory monitoring device tracks gastric slow waves in patients with gastroparesis, enabling better understanding of the condition and its treatment. The device offers a window into stomach bioelectrical activity, revolutionizing digestive disease diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Anil K. Rustgi has received the 2017 Julius Friedenwald Medal from the American Gastroenterological Association for his significant contributions to all aspects of gastroenterology, including research and clinical medicine. He is a leading expert in GI cancers and pre-cancerous changes.
The compilation presents state-of-the-art reviews on the pathogenesis, pathophysiology, and therapy of obesity, with a focus on the gastrointestinal tract. Key findings highlight the importance of diet composition, lifestyle interventions, and pharmacotherapy in weight management and metabolic health.
The American Gastroenterological Association recommends a tailored approach to PPI use for different conditions, weighing benefits against risks. Long-term PPI users should have their doses reevaluated regularly to minimize side effects.
The AGA has created an Obesity Practice Guide to guide and personalize innovative obesity care for safe and effective weight management. The program includes a framework focused on business operational issues related to the management of obese patients, published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
A research team developed ingestible prototypes that draw energy from gastric acid and provide power for nearly a week. They used zinc and copper as electrodes to harness energy from both the stomach and small intestine.
A new study by University of Florida researchers found that people seeking emergency treatment for food obstruction are 10 times more likely to do so during or after national holidays and sporting events. The study also identified turkey as the most common impacted food, followed by chicken and beef.
The new position paper provides recommendations on the timing and content of introducing complementary foods, as well as methods of feeding and specific dietary practices. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring adequate iron intake from complementary foods for all infants, especially those on vegetarian diets.
Professor J. Calvin Coffey reclassified the mesentery as a single, continuous structure connecting the intestine to the abdomen, leading to potential advances in surgeries and disease diagnosis. Further study of mesenteric science could result in less invasive procedures, faster recovery times, and lower costs.
A study published by the American Gastroenterological Association found that adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) diagnosed in childhood have better educational levels and higher annual incomes compared to their healthy counterparts. This news may alleviate anxiety for parents of newly diagnosed patients, providing reassurance ...
A new study has found that faecal bacterial profiles can be used to predict which IBS patients are most likely to benefit from a low-FODMAP diet. The research identified differences in gut bacteria composition between those who responded and did not respond to the diet.
The Rome IV classification introduces new diagnoses, emphasizes gut-brain interaction, and updates diagnostic criteria for functional gastrointestinal disorders. The Rome IV toolkit provides an interactive clinical decision-making tool for clinicians to optimize patient care.
Researchers have developed a new imaging technique using hyperspectral imaging to detect and characterize early cancerous changes in the gastrointestinal tract. The technique, which involves increasing color channels during endoscopy, has the potential to improve specificity of lesion identification.
A recent study links a disease-associated microbial state to increased risk of developing IBD in genetically- and environmentally-susceptible individuals. Another study found that exposure to high altitude conditions triggers local acid sensing pathways leading to disease progression in IBD patients. Meanwhile, research highlights the ...
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has launched a new PatientINFO Center to provide high-quality, readable information on colorectal cancer. The center addresses gaps in existing resources, offering detailed information on screening options, risk factors, and prevention strategies.
Researchers found that colorectal tumors have different regions with varying levels of epigenetic changes, which relate to the tumor's growth rate and aggressiveness. This heterogeneity can be used to predict prognosis and treatment resistance.
The AGA Fecal Microbiota Transplantation National Registry aims to protect patient safety while providing valuable data on the potential health risks of FMT. The registry will collect information from patients undergoing FMT at sites across the US, following them for up to 10 years to monitor adverse events and effectiveness.
The AGA Research Foundation and Pfizer Inc. are offering three research grants to support innovative research projects related to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The grants will provide $30,000 in funding for one-year pilot projects exploring new research directions.
The AGA Research Foundation has awarded $90,000 per year to three young investigators working on inflammatory bowel disease projects. The funding aims to improve patient care and advance the understanding of this serious digestive disease.
A team of UNC School of Medicine researchers played a critical role in amending diagnostic criteria questionnaires for functional GI disorders. The Rome IV publication updates the diagnostic tools available to clinicians, incorporating research on symptoms and patient experiences. These changes improve treatment options for millions of...
The low FODMAP diet has been found to be an effective treatment option for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with a significant body of evidence supporting its efficacy. The long-term effects of this dietary approach, however, require further investigation.
Researchers discovered that stem cells isolated from young mice can accelerate repair of stomach ulcers when transplanted into older mice. Additionally, studies redefined the role of the gut microbiome in inflammatory bowel disease and found potential therapeutic applications for acute alcoholic liver disease using a scavenger compound.
Researchers found that fecal microbiota transplantation effectively treated ulcerative colitis, with 27% of patients achieving symptom-free status. The study, which used a multi-donor approach, showed promise as an alternative treatment option for UC patients resistant to conventional therapies.
A study found that patients who ate solid foods before a colonoscopy had better bowel preparation and higher patient satisfaction rates. The low-residue diet included foods like eggs, cheese, and chicken breast, which made the process easier and less uncomfortable for patients.
UT Southwestern researchers challenge long-held beliefs on acid reflux damage, finding that inflammatory response and cytokine secretion are the main causes of esophageal damage. The study could lead to novel GERD treatments targeting these proteins.
At DDW 2016, AGA presents notable clinical practice data and basic science research on the gut microbiome. The conference features seven highlighted abstracts focusing on obesity management, hollow organ failure, and upper GI cancers.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that celiac disease is most common among Americans from the Punjab region of India. The study analyzed over 400,000 intestinal biopsies and identified significant differences in celiac disease rates across various ethnic groups.
Recent CMGH articles suggest that targeting gut microbial populations may help prevent or treat Crohn's disease. A new study also identifies a potential therapy for chronic pancreatitis by reducing fibrosis and damage to the pancreas.
A new prognostic model for hepatocellular carcinoma, ITA.LI.CA, shows superior survival prediction in Italian and Taiwanese cohorts, integrating tumor staging, liver function, functional status, and alpha-fetoprotein level. The resulting score has concordance indices of 0.71 and 0.78 in internal and external validation cohorts.
A large cohort study in the UK found that antibiotic exposure before age 2 significantly increases early childhood obesity risk. The study suggests that antibiotics may alter the gut microbiome, predisposing children to obesity.
A recent study published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition found that children with autism do not have a unique pattern of abnormal results on endoscopy or other tests for gastrointestinal disorders. The researchers analyzed the results of diagnostic tests in 61 children with autism being evaluated for GI sympt...
Colorectal cancer patients require follow-up colonoscopy after surgery to detect second cancers and polyps, with recommended intervals varying from one to nine years. The US Multi-Society Task Force updates guidelines to emphasize the role of colonoscopy in post-surgical surveillance.
A study analyzing billing data found that nearly 29% of patients undergoing colonoscopy had a pre-procedure office visit, resulting in increased healthcare costs. Office visits were more common among patients with higher Charlson Comorbidity Index scores and were associated with a diagnosis of screening or preoperative evaluation.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces stomach size and alters physiology, resulting in significant weight loss. The study found a 54% reduction in excess body weight at one year, with improved patient satisfaction and delayed solid food emptying.
The American Gastroenterological Association has released six clinical practice guidelines for common gastrointestinal conditions. The guidelines recommend budesonide for microscopic colitis treatment and suggest selectively using antibiotics in acute diverticulitis management. AGA also advises against upper GI biopsies in immunocompro...
Healthcare professionals across Europe are urged to address alcohol misuse and dependence to prevent colorectal cancer (CRC). A growing European primary care study highlights the need for family doctors to identify and treat hazardous drinkers.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that feeding at-risk infants gluten until two years of age increases the risk of developing celiac disease. The research suggests that early gluten intake plays a role in disease course, particularly in children with genetic risk factors for celiac disease.
Italian scientists discover higher blood levels of zonulin in patients with non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), suggesting a role for the protein in developing these conditions. The findings may lead to new treatment strategies for NCGS and IBS.
Experts at UEG Week 2015 reveal compelling evidence of the link between excess body weight and colorectal cancer risk. Men who gained at least 10 cm in waist circumference over 10 years experienced a nearly 60% increased CRC risk, with obesity doubling this risk for those with Lynch Syndrome.
Experts share insights on fecal microbiota transplantation, Clostridium difficile infection, and constipation management. Key findings highlight predictors of treatment failure and the cost-effectiveness of competing strategies for managing multiply recurrent C. difficile infections.
Fecal microbiota transplantation may predict treatment failure for Clostridium difficile, while changes in gut microbiota could be linked to weight gain or loss. The American College of Gastroenterology's 80th Annual Scientific Meeting highlights the latest scientific advances and clinical practice management.
A new capsule form of faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been shown to be well-tolerated and effective in resolving diarrhoea in patients with difficult-to-treat C difficile infection. The study found a 90% rate of symptom resolution, suggesting that FMT could potentially supersede antibiotics as a treatment option.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that all relatives of individuals with colorectal cancer are at increased risk for this cancer, regardless of their age. The risk is highest among young first-degree relatives under 50 years old.
The American Gastroenterological Association recommends testing all newly diagnosed cases of colorectal cancer to identify Lynch syndrome, a genetic disorder that increases the risk of colorectal and endometrial cancers. Regular surveillance colonoscopy is also recommended for individuals with Lynch syndrome.
A new study has found that detecting small fragments of tumor DNA in a patient's pre-surgery serum samples can predict early recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma and guide treatment. This non-invasive method may lead to improved survival rates for liver cancer patients.
Dr. Theresa Alenghat receives $100,000 grant to study epigenetics role in IBD development and progression. Her research aims to test the hypothesis that dysregulation of epigenomic modifications and microbiota alterations drive IBD.
A Veterans Affairs team found that longer-lasting colonoscopies are associated with lower cancer rates. Doctors with average withdrawal times of under six minutes had patients more than twice as likely to have cancer. Experts recommend focusing quality-improvement efforts on withdrawal times of under six minutes.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has proposed an alternate pathway to recertification that focuses on active, adaptive, self-directed learning modules. This approach aims to enhance patient care by making the recertification process more individualized and competency-based.