The article discusses the psychological barriers that contribute to low rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Many Americans, over 40%, are skipping standard CRC screening due to negative emotional associations with the disease and the tests involved. Fear, embarrassment, and disgust associated with CRC and its screening tests lead to denial and defensiveness, causing individuals to put off screening and hope for the best. Although there are various screening options available, such as colonoscopy, stool-based tests, and direct visualization tests, the overall CRC screening rates remain below the target percentage. Practical challenges, like the invasiveness and time commitment of colonoscopy,…
Author: Abhay Panchal
The article also explores the potential impact of a proposed name change for NAFLD. Some experts argue that the term NAFLD (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) is too broad and fails to adequately capture the more severe subset, NASH. As a result, they suggest renaming NAFLD to metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) to better reflect the underlying metabolic dysfunction associated with the condition. This proposed change could potentially shift the status quo and improve the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of NASH. While some researchers and physicians support the proposed name change, others express concerns about the potential confusion and the need…
The article discusses the slow adoption of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for the treatment of colorectal cancer in the United States, despite its potential to improve patient outcomes. ESD is a minimally invasive procedure that allows for the removal of large or complex colorectal lesions without the need for surgery. Despite being widely used in Asia and Europe, ESD uptake in the US remains limited. The article highlights several factors contributing to this slow adoption, including limited training opportunities, technical challenges, and concerns over safety and reimbursement.
The article announces the annual “Disruptive Dozen” list of the top 12 emerging technologies that are expected to have a significant impact on patient care, as identified by Mass General Brigham, a leading healthcare organization. The list includes a diverse range of innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) for radiology, advanced gene therapies, virtual and augmented reality applications in healthcare, precision medicine tools, and remote monitoring devices. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize various aspects of healthcare delivery, diagnosis, treatment, and patient engagement.
G&H What underlying disease mechanisms play a role in the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome? GH Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an example of disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs). These conditions are now defined by the Rome criteria and characterized by specific symptoms in the absence of structural abnormalities that can be identified utilizing routine clinical testing. The exact cause of IBS is unknown; however, it is likely that a variety of factors collectively or in isolation contribute to the manifestation of IBS. Although for many years there was a belief that motility abnormalities played a key role, it has…
The article discusses a new algorithm developed by researchers to aid in the diagnosis and management of Clostridioides difficile infection (C. diff). C. diff is a bacterial infection that can cause severe diarrhea and is commonly acquired in healthcare settings. The algorithm incorporates various clinical and laboratory factors to guide healthcare providers in making informed decisions regarding C. diff testing and treatment. It takes into account factors such as patient symptoms, risk factors, and test results to determine the likelihood of C. diff infection.
The article discusses a new genetic risk test that has the potential to reduce the frequency of colonoscopies in individuals at low risk for colorectal cancer. Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a genetic risk score based on a combination of 40 genetic markers associated with colorectal cancer. The study found that individuals with a low genetic risk score had a significantly lower risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to the general population. By incorporating this genetic risk test, it may be possible to identify individuals who can safely undergo less frequent colonoscopies or alternative screening methods.
The article published in JAMA discusses a research study that examines the impact of mask-wearing on COVID-19 transmission in schools. The study, conducted in Missouri, analyzed data from 169 schools during the 2020-2021 academic year. The findings revealed that schools with mask mandates had significantly lower rates of COVID-19 transmission compared to schools without such mandates. The study found that mask-wearing among students and staff was associated with a 3.5 times lower risk of COVID-19 outbreaks in schools. Furthermore, schools that implemented both mask mandates and improved ventilation had even lower transmission rates.
The article discusses a study conducted by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania that explores the potential of rideshare services in overcoming transportation barriers to colonoscopy appointments. Colonoscopy is a crucial screening procedure for detecting colorectal cancer, but transportation challenges can prevent some individuals from attending their appointments.
The Gastrointestinal Care Excellence Award™ recognizes hospitals that deliver superior patient outcomes in colorectal surgeries, gallbladder removal, upper gastrointestinal surgery, and treating bowel obstruction, gastrointestinal bleeds, and pancreatitis.