The June issue of The American Journal of Gastroenterology includes articles on the effectiveness of over-the-counter therapies and green kiwifruit as a dietary therapy for chronic constipation, as well as new ACG Guidelines on the Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Clostridioides difficile infections. In addition, this issue features clinical research and reviews on celiac disease misconceptions, risk of gastric cancer from PPI vs. H2RA use, health disparities in Barrett’s esophagus, COVID-19 vaccine perception among chronic disease patients, psychological interventions for pediatric functional abdominal pain, and more.
The three articles highlighted below include the updated guidelines, a study comparing the effectiveness of green kiwifruit in treating chronic constipation, and a review of common misconceptions about celiac disease and the gluten-free diet. 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.
ACG Clinical Guidelines: Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Clostridioides difficile Infections
Kelly, et al.
New ACG Guidelines were authored to address C. difficile infection, bacteria that often causes diarrhea and is more likely to occur in those who are taking antibiotics, of advanced age (65 or older), or in a hospital or long-term care facility setting. Highlights of the guidelines include a recommendation against using probiotics to prevent C. difficile infection and guidance regarding medication therapies, which vary depending upon infection severity and recurrence. In cases of infection recurrence, the guidelines’ authors recommend introducing fecal microbiota transplantation earlier in the recurrence cycle than previously suggested (after the second recurrence or third episode).
Exploratory Comparative Effectiveness Trial of Green Kiwifruit, Psyllium, or Prunes in US Patients With Chronic Constipation
Chey, et al.
In the first US study to assess green kiwifruit as a potential therapy for constipation, authors compared the effectiveness of kiwifruit, prunes, and psyllium in relieving chronic constipation. The study found that consuming two green kiwifruit per day benefited patients with constipation, similarly to treatment with prunes or psyllium. Additionally, kiwifruit caused fewer adverse side effects such as pain, cramping, and bloating, compared to prunes and psyllium.
Celiac Disease: Fallacies and Facts
Silvester, et al.
In this review of commonly held misconceptions about celiac disease, the authors make important clarifications, with a particular focus on the gluten-free diet (GFD). They note that the GFD can present challenges, including access to appropriate foods, adverse effects, cost burden, and adherence and self-regulation. The review also emphasizes that a GFD is not a perfect solution and that, as celiac disease is a lifelong condition, it is poised for drug development, with the ultimate goal to achieve “tolerance” to consume gluten safely.
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 preeminent professional organization that champions the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of digestive disorders, serving as a beacon to guide the delivery of the highest quality, compassionate, and evidence-based patient care. The mission of the College is to enhance the ability of our members to provide world class care to patients with digestive disorders and advance the profession through excellence and innovation based upon the pillars of Patient Care, Education, Scientific Investigation, Advocacy and Practice Management. www.gi.org
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