For nearly 50 million Americans, seeing a gastroenterologist means driving 25 miles or more—if they can find one at all. A new Weill Cornell Medicine study, published in Gastroenterology, reveals over two-thirds of U.S. counties lack a GI specialist, disproportionately affecting rural and aging populations.
Author: Abhay Panchal
A revolutionary blood test could transform how colorectal cancer is detected—without the need for invasive procedures. Oxford BioDynamics’ (OBD) EpiSwitch® No-Stool Test (NST) has shown 81% accuracy in detecting early-stage colorectal cancer and 82% accuracy in identifying precancerous polyps, according to a new multi-center clinical study published in Cancers journal.With colorectal cancer affecting nearly 2 million people annually, early detection is critical. NST offers a minimally invasive, cost-effective alternative to traditional colonoscopy and stool-based screenings, which often lack sensitivity for early-stage disease.
A groundbreaking study suggests that a simple low-dose aspirin regimen could slash the risk of colon cancer returning by more than 50%—but only for a specific group of patients. Researchers found that 160 mg of aspirin daily dramatically reduced cancer recurrence in colon cancer patients with PI3K gene mutations, a genetic marker found in about 30% of cases. Patients taking aspirin saw their recurrence risk drop to 7.7%, compared to 14.1% with a placebo. Even more striking? Those with other PI3K mutations had a 58% lower risk of recurrence with aspirin use. Despite its potent benefits, serious side effects were…
Once considered rare, eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is now rapidly increasing in prevalence, making it a frequent challenge in gastroenterology, allergy, and even primary care. But with evolving research, how has diagnosis and treatment changed? The latest American College of Gastroenterology guidelines highlight a shift in approach—moving beyond just symptom control to targeting both inflammation and fibrosis. Treatment now includes proton pump inhibitors, topical steroids, biologics, diet elimination, and esophageal dilation, with feeding therapy recommended for children.
Could a weight-loss procedure do more than just shed pounds? New research suggests bariatric surgery slashes the risk of pancreatic cancer by up to 79% for people with type 2 diabetes—and by 54% overall. A sweeping meta-analysis of over 3.7 million adults found that those who underwent bariatric surgery were significantly less likely to develop one of the deadliest cancers. Surprisingly, sleeve gastrectomy showed a stronger protective effect than gastric bypass. But why? Scientists believe the surgery’s metabolic changes—not just weight loss—may play a crucial role. Could this procedure be an untapped weapon against cancer? While experts warn bariatric surgery…
Health care prices have surged over the past decade, forcing private insurers to pay 143% more for physician services compared to Medicare. This disparity has fueled calls to align private insurance rates with Medicare—but would it cause widespread access issues? New analysis reveals a surprising truth: the vast majority of physicians (89%) accept new Medicare patients, a rate nearly identical to those accepting new private insurance patients (91%). Even among primary care providers, where concerns are highest, 83% still welcome new Medicare patients, challenging the narrative that Medicare rates are too low for physician participation.
What happens when a healthcare giant falls victim to one of the most devastating cyberattacks in history? UnitedHealth Group has now revealed that the February 2024 ransomware attack on Change Healthcare compromised a staggering 190 million individuals—nearly twice the original estimate. Despite the unprecedented scale, millions affected have yet to receive formal notifications, even as their data circulates in the hands of cybercriminals. A $22 million ransom was paid to stop the data from leaking, but in a stunning betrayal, the hackers pocketed the money and never delivered on their promise. Meanwhile, a new ransomware group emerged, seeking even more…
Bain Capital Private Equity has made a $3.2 billion proposal to acquire the remaining 61% of Surgery Partners at $25.75 per share, a 21.2% premium over its last closing price. The offer has triggered a 20% stock surge, signaling strong investor interest. However, analysts believe Bain’s bid may not be enough, potentially inviting counteroffers from UnitedHealth, TPG, and other private equity firms previously eyeing the company. With Surgery Partners already exploring strategic alternatives, the big question remains: Will Bain’s proposal spark a bidding war or will the surgical facility giant take the deal?
A multicenter study published in Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology highlights critical delays in initiating advanced therapies for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) due to insurance preauthorizations, intravenous (IV) administration, and lack of pharmacy support. Researchers analyzed 388 adult patients across two U.S. academic medical centers, identifying three key risk factors significantly increasing the likelihood of a >14-day delay between prescription and first dose. These findings highlight the urgent need for streamlined prior authorization processes, improved pharmacy coordination, and alternative drug delivery strategies to reduce treatment delays. Given the proven benefits of early biologic therapy, could addressing these systemic barriers significantly improve…
In this video, Dr. Vasu Appalaneni, a gastroenterologist at Dayton Gastroenterology and EVP of Clinical Innovation at One GI, explores the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern gastroenterology practices. As AI continues to revolutionize diagnostics, workflow efficiency, and patient outcomes, physicians and business leaders must strategically evaluate its integration into their operations.