Bethesda, MD (January 8, 2020) – The January issue of The American Journal of Gastroenterology is now available and features new clinical research across a wide range of gastroenterology and hepatology topics, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, colorectal cancer screening, gastroesophageal reflux, post-COVID-19-associated functional GI disorder surges, celiac disease, and more. Notably, this issue includes The American College of Gastroenterology’s first Clinical Guideline on Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Of particular clinical relevance to many patients and providers are the three articles highlighted below. Access to any articles from this issue or past issues is available upon request. The College is also able to connect members of the press with study authors or outside experts who can comment on the articles.
Mass Screening for Celiac Disease: The Autoimmunity Screening for Kids Study
Stahl, et al.
This large-scale pediatric study screened for type 1 diabetes and celiac disease and found that 2.4% of children screened have undiagnosed celiac disease autoimmunity. Of those found to have celiac disease autoimmunity, only 10% have a family history and approximately two-thirds had no symptoms, suggesting that most would not have been identified by current screening practices.
Effects of Statin Use on the Development and Progression of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Nationwide Nested Case-Control Study
Lee, et al.
Statin use reduced the risk of de novo NAFLD development and reduced the risk of significant liver fibrosis in patients with existing NAFLD, independent of associated diabetes.
Obesity, Diabetes, Coffee, Tea, and Cannabis Use Alter Risk for Alcohol-Related Cirrhosis in 2 Large Cohorts of High-Risk Drinkers
Whitfield, et al.
Two large cohorts of high-risk drinkers were compared, one with alcohol-related cirrhosis and one with equivalent alcohol exposure but no evidence of liver disease. Coffee and tea were shown to confer protective effects against cirrhosis, while obesity, diabetes, and family history of cirrhosis were associated with a higher incidence of alcohol-related cirrhosis. The evaluation of these factors, independent of lifetime alcohol exposure, suggests that lifestyle interventions to address the modifiable risk factors may reduce the risk of alcohol-related cirrhosis.
About the American College of Gastroenterology
Founded in 1932, the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) is an organization with an international membership of over 16,000 individuals from 86 countries. The College’s vision is to be the pre-eminent professional organization that champions the evolving needs of clinicians in the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based and compassionate health care to gastroenterology patients. The mission of the College is to advance world-class care for patients with gastrointestinal disorders through excellence, innovation and advocacy in the areas of scientific investigation, education, prevention and treatment. www.gi.org
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