IBD vary by race/gender, Founder with IBD, Constipation and back pain, AI potential in IBD

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Crohn's, Colitis Vary by Race, Gender (2 minute read)

A recent U.S. study from Rutgers University reveals distinct patterns in the incidence of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis based on race, gender, and place of origin. Inflammatory bowel disorders (IBD) vary widely among different demographic groups, challenging the historical perception of IBD as a disease primarily affecting Caucasian populations in Europe and North America. The research, analyzing 525 patients treated at a New York City hospital from 1997 to 2017, found differences in outcomes based on race and birthplace. Notably, Black patients born in the U.S. were more likely to develop Crohn's disease, while those born abroad had a higher likelihood of ulcerative colitis. Asian men, regardless of birthplace, were twice as likely as women to have an IBD, indicating potential genetic factors. Understanding these disparities is crucial for tailored management and further research into the complex nature of these inflammatory bowel disorders.

I’m a founder living with chronic illness. Here’s how I thrive (5 minute read)

The author shares a personal journey from a hospital bed, diagnosed with Crohn's disease and psoriatic arthritis at 19, to becoming a 2x Founder, 3x autoimmune patient, and board chair of the Autoimmune Association. Despite challenges, they embraced ambition and health, advocating for those with chronic conditions. The article encourages individuals to identify strengths developed through adversity, communicate needs at work, and consider entrepreneurship for flexibility. It emphasizes redefining the narrative around chronic conditions and fostering a supportive community.

Can Constipation Cause Back Pain? (7 minute read)

This article explores the connection between constipation and back pain. It reveals that constipation can lead to lower back pain due to the pressure of accumulated stool on back muscles. Chronic constipation may result in fecal impaction, causing severe lower back pain. Conversely, back issues like pinched nerves or herniated disks can lead to difficulty in passing stool, causing constipation. Several conditions, including cancer, endometriosis, IBS, fibromyalgia, and IBD, can be associated with both constipation and back pain. The article advises seeking medical attention if constipation persists despite lifestyle changes, especially if accompanied by concerning symptoms. Lifestyle measures and over-the-counter medications are suggested for self-care in resolving constipation-related back pain.

Here's What I Want You To Know About Having Diarrhoea While Out In Public (8 minute read)

The author recounts a personal struggle with a bathroom-related medical condition, Crohn's disease. Despite facing embarrassment and challenges, she highlights the widespread nature of such issues, affecting millions of Americans. The lack of accessible public restrooms is a major concern for various groups, including those with medical conditions, the homeless, and parents with young children. The author emphasizes the importance of open dialogue to destigmatize these issues and improve restroom accessibility, advocating for understanding and kindness towards those facing such challenges.

AI Shows Potential for Detecting Mucosal Healing in Ulcerative Colitis (3 minute read)

Artificial intelligence (AI) systems exhibit significant potential in detecting mucosal healing in ulcerative colitis, demonstrating high diagnostic performance in a systematic review and meta-analysis. AI algorithms, particularly those based on convolutional neural networks, replicate expert opinions with high sensitivity and specificity in evaluating endoscopic images and videos. The study emphasizes the potential of AI to address the issue of low-to-moderate interobserver agreement among human endoscopists in indicating mucosal healing. However, the authors note a moderate-high heterogeneity in data, attributing it to variations in AI software training and testing. While AI achieved satisfactory performance, the study highlights the importance of standardizing training and testing procedures for AI models in this context. Despite challenges, experts foresee AI contributing to standardized assessment of mucosal healing in ulcerative colitis, potentially improving diagnostic accuracy and reproducibility.

Plant non-steroidal anti-inflammatory leaves immune system intact (3 minute read)

Researchers have developed a novel non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (AG5) from andrographolide, the active ingredient in a medicinal plant used in Southeast Asia. Unlike corticosteroids, AG5 doesn't suppress the innate immune system, making it a potential alternative treatment for COVID-19 and chronic inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease. Derived from the Andrographis paniculata plant, AG5 demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in zebrafish and mouse models, reducing cytokine levels without adverse effects. The compound, expected to undergo clinical trials for fatty liver disease in 2024, holds promise for various inflammatory conditions.

Your unique microbiome may be used to improve and personalize your future medical experience (4 minute read)

The study, published in Nature Reviews Microbiology, explores over 200 publications linking microbiomes to clinical diagnostics and precision therapeutics. The gut microbiome's variability and impact on health are discussed, emphasizing its role in conditions like cancer. Metagenomic sequencing and AI are proposed as tools to overcome current diagnostic limitations. The text also explores the potential of microbiome interventions in personalized medicine, discussing their role in disease prevention and treatment. However, challenges include the infancy of the field, lack of safety validation, and cost issues. The need for further research before widespread clinical application is emphasized.

FDA ends 2023 on high note for GI: Ulcerative colitis pipeline teeming with new approvals (5 minute read)

In the latter half of 2023, the FDA approved several groundbreaking therapies for gastroenterology and hepatology, focusing on ulcerative colitis (UC). Notably, Eli Lilly's Omvoh and Pfizer's Velsipity were sanctioned as "first and only" IL-23p19 inhibitor and S1P receptor modulator for UC, respectively. Celltrion USA's Zymfentra also gained approval as the first subcutaneous infliximab for UC and Crohn’s. Additionally, Phathom Pharmaceuticals received FDA approval for Voquezna tablets to treat erosive esophagitis and Helicobacter pylori infection. These approvals indicate a potential shift in the landscape of UC treatment in 2024, with new options challenging established therapies. The FDA also granted fast track designation to Chemomab Therapeutics' CM-101 for primary sclerosing cholangitis and conditional use to Enterra Medical's electrical stimulation device for gastroparesis. Furthermore, ProciseDx Inc. received de novo clearance for therapeutic drug monitoring tests for Humira and Remicade in inflammatory bowel disease, while RedHill Biopharma's Talicia regimen for H. pylori eradication was updated for improved patient adherence. Lastly, Gilead Sciences' Veklury received expanded approval for COVID-19 treatment across all stages of liver disease.

Start These New Habits for UC This New Year (4 minute read)

Managing ulcerative colitis (UC) involves lifestyle choices to control symptoms and extend flare-free periods. Experts recommend anxiety and depression screening, avoiding smoking, and promoting physical activity. Assess your habits, prioritize health screenings during wellness, and maintain a medical history on your phone. Monitor diet with a food diary, especially during flares. Build a supportive care team including a gastroenterologist, dietitian, and mental health professional. Prioritize sleep hygiene and exercise to enhance well-being. Experiment with diet modifications, seek reliable sources for guidance, and be patient in adopting new habits for improved digestive health.

Bowel Cancer: How to reduce your risk of developing disease following Mel Schilling's diagnosis (11 minute read)

Mel Schilling, a dating expert from Married at First Sight, was diagnosed with bowel cancer and spent Christmas in Kingston Hospital. Bowel cancer is the third most common globally, with 2 million cases annually. Despite 85% cure rates for early-stage detection, overall cure rates are around 50%. Genetic factors, inflammatory bowel disease, being male, and tall increase risk. Lifestyle choices play a significant role; over half of cases can be prevented. Key factors to reduce bowel cancer risk include regular exercise, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and vitamin D, while limiting excess meat, processed meat, alcohol, and maintaining good oral and gut health. Smoking, smoked foods, low vitamin D, low calcium, and obesity also contribute to risk. Awareness of lifestyle factors is crucial for preventing this disease.

IBD: Inflammatory Sensors (2 minute read)

Rice University researchers are developing a non-invasive approach to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) using a bacterial biosensor. The biosensors, inserted into a capsule, detect inflammation biomarkers in the gut and transmit signals to physicians, potentially replacing invasive procedures like endoscopies. The bacteria, with evolved genes, glow green when exposed to inflammation, providing a visual indicator. While human clinical trials are three years away, the innovative technology aims to enhance IBD diagnosis and treatment efficiency.