120 Gastroenterologists to Know in 2022

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If you’re on the search for a Gastroenterologist near you, you’re in luck – in an article written by Claire Wallace of Becker’s Healthcare, you can find an extensive list of Gastroenterologists across the country available with services available for your use.

In her article, Ms. Wallace describes Gastroenterology as, “A broad field covering a wide range of patient care, from endoscopy and colonoscopy to hepatitis C and pancreatic cancer.” Following her definition, she goes on to list 120 GIs to know, which we believe is extraordinarily helpful to people searching for the right Gastroenterologist for the first time, or as they move.

Here’s her list of 120 GIs to know in 2022:

Tyler Aasen, DO. The Iowa Clinic (West Des Moines). Dr. Aasen has been with The Iowa Clinic since 2020. He has a clinical interest in chronic liver disease and celiac disease.

Abera Abay, MD. William W. Backus Hospital (Norwich, Conn.). Dr. Abay serves as chair of quality assurance and performance improvement of Eastern Connecticut Endoscopy Center. He is also chair of the Medical Ethics Committee of the New London County Medical Association.

Gebran Abboud, MD. University of Arizona College of Medicine (Tucson). Dr. Abboud’s specialty is treating diseases of the pancreas, biliary system, liver, esophagus, stomach, small intestine and colon. Before his current role as clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, he was the director of gastroenterology at the Conemaugh Health System in Johnstown, Pa.

Maisa Abdalla, MD. Loma Linda (Calif.) University Medical Center. Dr. Abdalla has served as an assistant professor of medicine at Loma Linda University Medical Center since 2016. She practices there and at Riverside University Health System in Moreno Valley, Calif. She aims to improve accessibility and quality in patient care.

Tsion Abdi, MD. Johns Hopkins Medicine (Baltimore). Dr. Abdi serves as a clinical director for Johns Hopkins Knoll North Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Columbia, Md., and as an assistant professor of medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She is also a member of the American Gastroenterological Association, the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Medical Association.

Faten Aberra, MD. Penn Medicine (Philadelphia). Dr. Aberra is the director of Epic for the gastroenterology division. She is also an associate professor of medicine at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

Neena Abraham, MD. Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minn.). Dr. Abraham is also director of the Institute for Research and Education for the American College of Gastroenterology. She was most recently named the 2021 Healio & American College of Gastroenterology disruptive innovator in clinical medicine.

Maria Abreu, MD. University of Miami Health System. Dr. Abreu’s areas of expertise include inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. She is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in gastroenterology and internal medicine.

Abimbola Adike, MD. Digestive Disease and Endoscopy Center (Silverdale, Wash.). Dr. Adike is a member of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the American College of Gastroenterology. Her special interests are liver and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Adewale Ajumobi, MD. Eisenhower Health (Rancho Mirage, Calif.). Dr. Ajumobi is the founder and editor of BowelPrepGuide, which was recognized by the American College of Gastroenterology as the best website for colorectal cancer outreach, prevention and year-round excellence in 2015. He has been the recipient of the American College of Gastroenterology Service Award for Colorectal Cancer Outreach, Prevention & Year-Round Excellence multiple times.

Andrew Albert, MD. Chicago Gastro. Dr. Albert is a clinical assistant professor of medicine in the digestive diseases and nutrition department at the University of Illinois at Chicago. He also has advanced training in inflammatory bowel disease.

Tauseef Ali, MD. SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (Oklahoma City). Dr. Ali is chief of gastroenterology medical staff section at SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital as well as an assistant clinical professor at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. His specialty is inflammatory bowel disease, but he also has clinical interests in Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, colorectal screening, hemorrhoid banding and general gastroenterology.

Christopher Almario, MD. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (Los Angeles). Dr. Almario is also an assistant professor of medicine at Cedars-Sinai. He is a recipient of the American College of Gastroenterology Junior Faculty Development Grant.

Mohammad Alsolaiman, MD. Revere Health (American Fork and Lehi, Utah). Dr. Alsolaiman has advanced endoscopy training in pancreatic and biliary diseases. He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians, American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society of Gastroenterology Endoscopy.

Johnny Altawil, MD. The Endoscopy Center (Knoxville, Tenn.). Dr. Altawil is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and the American Gastroenterological Association. He is also board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Oksana Anand, MD. Rapid City (S.D.) Medical Center. Dr. Anand has a variety of special interests, including women’s GI health and inflammatory bowel disease. She has been a member of the American College of Gastroenterology since 2008.

Rajeswari Anaparthy, MD. Southwest Gastroenterology (Avondale, Ariz.). Dr. Anaparthy is the director and co-founder of Southwest Gastroenterology. She has been practicing gastroenterology since 2013 and is a diplomat for the American Board of Gastroenterology.

Julian Armstrong, MD. Texas Digestive Disease Consultants (Fort Worth). Dr. Armstrong believes gastroenterology is the perfect mixture of medicine and surgery. Before his current role at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants, he was the chief of gastroenterology at Landstuhl Army Regional Medical Center in Germany.

Mukul Arya, MD. White Plains (N.Y.) Hospital. Dr. Arya was recently appointed director of advanced gastroenterology at White Plains Hospital. He previously served at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital in New York City as director of advanced endoscopy.

Carl Atallah, DO. Advanced GI (Chicago). Dr. Atallah served as a clinical assistant professor at Midwestern University in Chicago during his gastroenterology fellowship. He is a member of the American Gastroenterological Association, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and the American Osteopathic Association.

Joseph Baltz Jr., MD. Gastro One (Germantown, Tenn.). Dr. Baltz has advanced training in endoscopic ultrasound, ablation of Barrett’s esophagus and endoscopic mucosal resection. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Arthur Baluyut, MD, PhD. Northside Gastro (Indianapolis). Dr. Baluyut has 20 years of experience in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures. In addition to clinical gastroenterology research, he researches the basic science of immunology.

Kevin Batte, MD. Gastroenterology Associates and Endoscopy Center of North Mississippi (Oxford). Dr. Batte has given several poster presentations on gastroenterology and has a manuscript on achalasia published in BMC Gastroenterology. He is a member of organizations including the American College of Physicians, the American Medical Association and the South Carolina Medical Association.

Michelle Beilstein, MD. The Oregon Clinic (Portland). Dr. Beilstein joined The Oregon Clinic in 2004. She has special interest in gastrointestinal oncology with a focus on pancreatic, biliary and esophageal cancer.

Emanuelle Bellaguarda, MD. Northwestern Memorial Hospital (Chicago). Dr. Bellaguarda is an assistant professor of medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. She is an advisory board member for several companies, including Pfizer, Prometheus Laboratories and the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.

Louis Bell, MD. Coastal Gastroenterology (Bluffton, S.C.). Dr. Bell has 29 years of gastroenterology experience. He performs about 1,500 procedures annually and has performed over 25,000 colonoscopies during his career.

Sameer Berry, MD. Oshi Health (New York). Dr. Berry is the CMO of Oshi Health, a virtual-first gastrointestinal care clinic. In addition to his position at Oshi Health, he is a gastroenterology fellow at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Ruchi Bhatia, MD. Ohio Gastroenterology Group (Columbus). Dr. Bhatia has been with Ohio Gastroenterology Group since September 2018. She has a special interest in the diagnosis and management of liver diseases and liver transplantation.

Marc Bissonnette, MD. University of Chicago Medical Center. Dr. Bissonnette is also an associate professor of medicine at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine. He is working to develop a blood test for colorectal cancer and plans to use it on Chicago’s South Side to reduce healthcare disparities.

Jennifer Brenner, MD. Colorado Gastroenterology (Denver). Dr. Brenner specializes in gastrointestinal health and liver diseases affecting women. She is an active member of the American Gastroenterology Association and the American College of Gastroenterology.

Michael Butensky, MD. Connecticut Gastroenterology Associates (Hartford). Dr. Butensky is the president and managing partner of Connecticut Gastroenterology Associates. He has interests in pancreaticobiliary disease, colon cancer screening and the management of inflammatory bowel disease. He has published various articles in peer-reviewed journals.

John Carethers, MD. Michigan Medicine (Ann Arbor). Dr. Carethers began his tenure as the president of the American Gastroenterological Association Institute in June. He also serves as the John G. Searle Professor of Internal Medicine and chair of the department of internal medicine at Michigan Medicine.

Sara Chalifoux, MD. United Gastroenterologists (Murrieta, Calif.). Dr. Chalifoux has an interest in the application of integrative health approaches toward common digestive disorders. She has authored multiple gastroenterology publications and has presented her research at national and international conferences.

Lin Chang, MD. UCLA Medical Center (Los Angeles). Dr. Chang is vice chief of UCLA Health’s Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases. She is also the director of the GI fellowship training program.

Swati Chaudhari, MD. Bellin Health Gastroenterology (Green Bay, Wis.). In addition to gastroenterology, Dr. Chaudhari specializes in hepatology and colon cancer screenings. She treats adults and seniors.

Chukwunonso Chime, MD. Western Wisconsin Health Main Campus (Baldwin). Dr. Chime has a special interest in managing upper GI disorders, liver and gallbladder related diseases, and more. He has been practicing since 2016.

Nancy Chung, MD. Vanguard Gastroenterology (New York City). Before joining Vanguard Gastroenterology, Dr. Chung had over a decade of experience serving patients throughout Westchester, N.Y., and the Bronx borough of New York City. She practices general gastroenterology with a focus on colon cancer screening and prevention.

Jermaine Clarke, DO. Grayson Digestive Disease Consultants (Sherman, Texas). Dr. Clarke has been the owner of Grayson Digestive Disease Consultants since 2015. Before his current role, he was a gastroenterologist at Sherman Gastroenterology Associates in the Sherman-Denison metropolitan area.

Douglas Corley, MD, PhD. Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center. Dr. Corley is also an associate member of the University of California San Francisco Comprehensive Cancer Center and a research scientist at the Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research. His research projects include esophageal adenocarcinoma and the carcinogenic effects of obesity.

Bradley Creel, MD. Atlanta Gastroenterology. Dr. Creel has been with Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates since 2011. He has clinical interests in the effects of HIV on the GI tract, treatment of hepatitis B and C, gastroesophageal reflux disease and more.

Erica Dailey, DO. Kansas City Gastroenterology & Hepatology Physicians Group (Overland Park, Kan.). Dr. Dailey believes in treating patients like family. She has clinical interests in inflammatory bowel diseases, infectious gastroenterology, screening, prevention and more. She enjoys volunteering, providing mentorship to women in medicine and attending medical mission trips.

Paul Dambowy, MD. MNGI Digestive Health (Minneapolis). Dr. Dambowy was recently appointed CMO at MNGI Digestive Health. He was previously the organization’s site medical director at its Woodbury (Minn.) Endoscopy Center and Clinic.

Steven Desautels, MD. Alta View Hospital (Sandy, Utah), Riverton (Utah) Hospital and Lone Peak Hospital (Draper, Utah). Dr. Desautels has been awarded for his clinical research by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, the American College of Gastroenterology and the American College of Physicians. He specializes in esophageal disorders, gastroesophageal reflux disease, cancer of the GI tract, functional disorders of the GI tract and therapeutic endoscopy.

Manish Dhamija, MD. Advanced GI (Chicago). Dr. Dhamija has more than 10 years of clinical GI experience. He is a member of the American Gastroenterological Association, the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Shirley Donelson, MD. GI Associates & Endoscopy Center (Madison and Flowood, Miss.). Dr. Donelson joined GI Associates in June 2015. She is a fellow of the American Medical Association and the Mississippi State Medical Association.

Kulwinder Dua, MD. Froedtert Hospital (Milwaukee). Dr. Dua is also a professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. His research has been published more than 200 times in peer-reviewed journals, and he is a member of several editorial boards.

Rachel Dunn, MD. Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital (Indianapolis). Dr. Dunn has a special interest in eosinophilic esophagitis, celiac disease, nutrition and interventional procedures. She is a member of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition and the American College of Gastroenterology.

Noel Fajardo, MD. Las Vegas Gastroenterology. Dr. Fajardo is former clinical instructor at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine in Rochester, Minn. His research interests include experimental treatments for neuropathic gastrointestinal disorders.

Helen Fasanya-Uptagraft, MD. Midwest Endoscopy Services (Omaha, Neb.). Dr. Fasanya-Uptagraft’s clinical interests include inflammatory bowel disease management and treatment, and she has presented her research on the topic at national conferences. She is a professional member of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America.

William Faubion Jr., MD. Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minn.). Dr. Faubion also has an NIH-funded lab focused on immune causes of gastrointestinal diseases. He is a member of the North American Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition.

Peter Fenton, MD. Utah Gastroenterology (Salt Lake City). Dr. Fenton has special interest in hepatology, inflammatory bowel disease and esophageal disorders. He is affiliated with Riverton Hospital, Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Mountain West Endoscopy Center in Salt Lake City and Lakeview Hospital in Bountiful, which are all in Utah.

Michael Flicker, MD. Advanced GI (Chicago). Dr. Flicker is a co-founder of Advanced GI. He is a member of the American Gastroenterological Association and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Dr. Mauricio Garcia Saenz de Sicilia. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (Little Rock). Dr. Garcia was recently appointed chief of the division of gastroenterology and hepatology and as an associate professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences department of internal medicine. Before coming into his new role, he worked at UAMS as director of the primary liver tumors clinic in the division of gastroenterology and hepatology and as co-director of gastroenterology and hepatology services.

Samuel Giordano, MD. Cooper University Digestive (Camden, N.J.). Dr. Giordano is also an assistant professor of medicine at the Cooper Medical School of Glassboro, N.J.-based Rowan University. His special interests include general gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, obesity, gastroesophageal reflux and nutrition.

Eric Goldberg, MD. University of Maryland Medical System (Baltimore). Dr. Goldberg is the clinical director and associate chief of gastroenterology. His specialties include advanced therapeutic endoscopy and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography to treat disorders of the pancreas and bile ducts.

Joshua Goldman, MD. Portland (Maine) Gastroenterology Center. Before joining Portland Gastroenterology Center, Dr. Goldman served as president of Gastroenterology Affiliates of Southeastern Massachusetts in Brockton for nine years. His interests include colon cancer prevention, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome and management of upper GI disorders.

Deepinder Goyal, MD. Gastro Health (Miami). Dr. Goyal is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology’s Practice Management committee and FDA related matters committee, and the Florida Gastrointestinal Society Federal Advocacy committee. He has won several awards, including a T32 research grant from the National Institute of Health.

Cory Halliburton, MD. Vermont Gastroenterology (Colchester). Dr. Halliburton’s clinical interests include inflammatory bowel disease and liver diseases. He is a staff member at University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington and has full attending privileges.

Andrew Heiner, MD. Granite Peaks Gastroenterology (Sandy, Utah). Dr. Heiner has been in practice for more than 20 years. His goal is to provide meaningful help to patients in need. He is affiliated with Alta View Hospital in Sandy and Lone Peak Hospital in Draper, both in Utah.

David Hockenbery, MD. University of Washington (Seattle). Dr. Hockenbery leads the gastroenterology and hepatology section at the hospital. He is a member of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle and the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. He also heads a lab dedicated to the study of apoptosis.

Dale Holly, MD. Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates. Dr. Holly is a diplomate of the American Subspecialty Board of Gastroenterology. In 2012, he was recognized as one of Atlanta’s 25 most influential African American physicians by the Black Health Medical Research Foundation.

Nooshin Hosseini, MD. Vanguard Gastroenterology (New York City). Dr. Hosseini has published more than 10 peer-reviewed papers, clinical reviews and abstracts. She was named an emerging liver scholar while she was a trainee at the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

Roger Huey, MD. Digestive Health Specialists (Tupelo, Miss.). Dr. Huey has been with Digestive Health Specialists since 2005. He previously served as chief medical resident at University of Mississippi School of Medicine in Jackson. He practiced privately in Greenwood, Miss., before moving to Tupelo in 2003.

Lyle Hurwitz, MD. Gastroenterology Associates of Florida (Atlantis). Dr. Hurwitz has done research on colorectal cancer screening, gastroesophageal reflux disease, irritable bowel and more. He has performed more than 15,000 procedures during his career.

Andrew Ippoliti, MD. Keck Hospital of USC (Los Angeles). Dr. Ippoliti is the associate chief of gastroenterology and is a clinical medicine professor at the USC Keck School of Medicine in Los Angeles. He has served on several advisory boards and lectured at medical centers nationwide.

Pothen Jacob, MD. Gastro Florida (Clearwater). Dr. Jacob has a special interest in motility disorders, liver disease and colon cancer screening. He has been practicing privately in Pinellas County since 1990. He is also a member of the American Gastroenterological Association and the American College of Gastroenterology.

Kambiz Kadkhodayan, MD. AdventHealth (Orlando, Fla.). Dr. Kadkhodayan is the program director of the advanced endoscopy fellowship at AdventHealth’s Center for Interventional Endoscopy. His clinical interests include management of patients with obesity and complex gastrointestinal diseases.

Patricia Kao, MD. Salem (Ore.) Gastro. Dr. Kao has practiced at Salem Gastro since 2007 in addition to having hospital privileges at Salem Hospital and West Valley Hospital in Dallas, Ore. She is also a staff member of Salem Endoscopy, an ASC and sister company of Salem Gastro.

Michael Kattah, MD. UCSF Medical Center (San Francisco). Dr. Kattah is also an assistant professor at the University of California San Francisco. His research focuses on why people develop inflammatory bowel disease and how to choose the best medications for each patient.

Jaffrey Kazi, MD. Scottsdale (Ariz.) Gastroenterology Specialists. Dr. Kazi does clinical research trials for conditions such as celiac disease and encephalopathy. He has a special interest in advanced endoscopies, bile duct disorders and pancreas disorders.

Ambreen Khurshid, MD. California Gastroenterology Associates (Fresno). Dr. Khurshid is affiliated with University of California San Francisco Fresno’s department of gastroenterology as teaching faculty. She has a special interest in GI disorders in women.

Joseph Kim, MD. North Texas Gastroenterology Associates (Sherman and Anna, Texas). Dr. Kim is certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology. He also has advanced training in endoscopy and has written two book chapters.

Karen Kim, MD. The University of Chicago Medicine. Dr. Kim is a professor of medicine and associate director of the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center. She is the director of the Center for Asian Health Equity and has an interest in researching underserved and minority populations, health disparities, cultural competency and cancer prevention.

Lawrence Kim, MD. South Denver Gastroenterology (Parker, Colo.). Dr. Kim was the first gastroenterologist to join the board of directors of the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care.

Hack Jae Kim, MD. Arizona Centers for Digestive Health (Phoenix). Dr. Kim has 21 years of experience in gastroenterology. He has expertise in esophageal cancer, gastrointestinal motility, colon cancer and more. He has been published in various gastroenterology journals including the American Journal of Gastroenterology, Gut, and Neurogastroenterology & Motility.

David Kim, MD. Illinois Gastroenterology Group (Peoria). Dr. Kim is the medical director of the Chicago-based Amita Health Hepatitis C clinic and also serves on the American Liver Foundation’s medical advisory committee.

Michelle Kim, MD, PhD. Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Kim was recently named the chair of the department of gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition at Cleveland Clinic’s Digestive Disease & Surgery Institute. She is the first woman to hold the position at Cleveland Clinic.

Divyanshoo Kohli, MD. Providence Digestive Health Institute (Spokane, Wash.). Dr. Kohli was recently appointed to the GI specialty board on the American Board of Internal Medicine. He also practices at the Providence Digestive Health Institute as an endoscopist.

Kavita Kongara, MD. Atlanta Gastroenterology. Dr. Kongara’s work has been published in journals such as The American Journal of Gastroenterology, The Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology and more. She has served Atlanta Gastroenterology since 2010.

Karen Kormis, MD. PA GI Consultants (Camp Hill, Pa.). Dr. Kormis has a special interest in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel diseases. She has been treating patients at PA GI since 1996.

Mary Kovalak, MD. South Denver Gastroenterology (Englewood, Colo.). Dr. Kovalak’s research interests include eosinophilic esophagitis. She is a member of the American Gastroenterological Association, the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Jose Lantin, MD. Gastroenterology of Westchester (Yonkers, N.Y.). Dr. Lantin is the CEO of Gastroenterology of Westchester. He has more than 30 years of experience and treats a variety of conditions, including inflammatory bowel diseases and acute and chronic pancreatitis.

Daryl Lau, MD. Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Boston). Dr. Lau is the director of translational liver research at the hospital. She is also an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston.

Gregory Lesser, MD. NJ Gastro (Newark, N.J.). Dr. Lesser has co-written publications on sedation and colonoscopy as well as other gastroenterology topics. He is a fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Gastroenterological Association.

Daus Mahnke, MD. Gastroenterology of the Rockies (Louisville, Colo.). Dr. Mahnke is also a clinical instructor of medicine at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center in Denver. He is also a member of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America Medical Advisory Board.

Pramod Malik, MD. Virginia Gastroenterology (Suffolk). Dr. Malik established Virginia Gastroenterology in 2016. He is a board member of the Virginia Gastroenterological Society and a fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology, the American Gastroenterological Association and the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Thalia Mayes, MD. Portland (Maine) Gastroenterology Center. In addition to her work at Portland Gastroenterology Center, Dr. Mayes is a clinical assistant professor at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston. She is also a member of Maine Medical Center’s medical staff in Portland.

Leon McLean, MD, PhD. Granite State Gastroenterology (Derry, N.H.). Dr. McLean is a clinical assistant professor of medicine at Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College in Hanover, N.H. He is a member of the American Gastroenterological Association, the American College of Gastroenterology and other organizations.

Gil Melmed, MD. Cedars-Sinai (Los Angeles). Dr. Melmed recently joined virtual gastrointestinal care company Oshi Health’s medical advisory board. He is also a member of the National Scientific Advisory Council for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation and is a co-chair of the foundation’s IBD Qorus quality improvement program.

Shoba Mendu, MD. Gastroenterology Associates of Tidewater (Chesapeake, Va.). Dr. Mendu was previously chief medical resident of Detroit Receiving Hospital. She has been with Gastroenterology Associates of Tidewater since 2010 and has advanced training in colorectal cancer screening, IBD, capsule endoscopy and women’s digestive health.

Shane Mills, MD. Eugene Gastroenterology (Springfield, Ore.). Dr. Mills served as chief of gastroenterology at William Beaumont Army Medical Center in El Paso,Texas from 2008-13. He has special interests in colorectal cancer screening and prevention, liver disease and more.

Thomas Mills, MD. Digestive Healthcare Clinic (Jackson, Miss.). Dr. Mills is self-employed and has his own independent private practice in Jackson. He is also the former chair of the St. Dominic Hospital Endoscopy Committee.

Smruti Mohanty, MD. Beth Israel Medical Center (Newark, N.J.). Dr. Mohanty was recently named director of gastroenterology at Beth Israel Medical Center. He has more than 20 years of gastroenterology experience and specializes in liver transplants and liver disease.

Angela Nutt, MD. GastroArkansas (Little Rock). Dr. Nutt has been with GastroArkansas since 1999. She also serves as vice chair of gastroenterology at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock.

Jadesola Omoyeni, MD. Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio. Dr. Omoyeni’s clinical interests include preventing colon cancer using high-value care and cost-effective treatments. She has also published articles about bariatric surgery and liver diseases.

Haleh Pazwash, MD. Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey (Ridgewood). In addition to practicing at the Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey, Dr. Pazwash is also chair of the division of gastroenterology at Valley Hospital in Ridgewood. Before her current roles, she served as Valley Hospital’s chair of the endoscopy committee until 2017. Dr. Pazwash has also volunteered as an associate clinical professor at St. Vincent’s Catholic Medical Center in New York City.

Elizabeth Raskin, MD. Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian (Newport Beach, Calif.). Dr. Raskin was recently named surgical director for the Margolis Family Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program, which is part of the Hoag Digestive Institute. She has 20 years of experience in colon and rectal surgeries.

Nitesh Ratnakar, MD. West Virginia Gastroenterology & Endoscopy (Elkins). Dr. Ratnakar serves as the West Virgina governor of the American College of Gastroenterology. He is also a member of the task force of the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy on innovation in endoscopy.

Alexis Rodriguez, MD. Center for Pediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition (Evergreen Park and Elmhurst, Ill.). Dr. Rodriguez has experience managing inflammatory bowel disease, abdominal pain, hepatitis and more. She is affiliated with several Chicago-area hospitals.

Lisa Rossi, MD. Connecticut Gastroenterology Associates (Hartford). Dr. Rossi is a clinical instructor in the department of medicine at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine in Farmington. She is also the university’s GI fellowship site director at Saint Francis Hospital in Hartford.

Lauren Schwartz, MD. Manhattan Gastroenterology (New York City). Dr. Schwartz has a special interest in general gastroenterology, women’s health, colon cancer screening and more. Her evaluations and treatment plans often include nutritional interventions and lifestyle modifications. She is a member of various organizations including the American Gastroenterological Association, American College of Gastroenterology and more.

Nikrad Shahnavaz, MD. Emory University Hospital (Atlanta). Dr. Shahnavaz is also an associate professor at the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta. He has published several scientific articles, co-authored a book on gastroenterology and has presented at conferences internationally.

Aniq Shaikh, MD. Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida (Orlando). Dr. Shaikh is chief of medicine at Florida Hospital East Orlando. He is also a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and Association of Pakistani Physicians of North America.

Sunana Sohi, MD. Louisville (Ky.) Gastroenterology Associates. Dr. Sohi has been practicing at Louisville Gastroenterology Associates since 2010. She is a member of the American Medical Association, the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Lidia Spaho, MD. Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital (Winfield, Ill.). Dr. Spaho serves at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital, a 390-bed acute care facility. She is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in both gastroenterology and internal medicine.

Christian Stone, MD. Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada (Las Vegas). Dr. Stone has been practicing in Las Vegas since 2009. His research has resulted in more than 100 published book chapters, invited reviews and original manuscripts in peer-reviewed medical journals.

Doris Strader, MD. The University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington). Dr. Strader runs a liver clinic at the University of Vermont Medical Center. She has been conducting gastroenterology and hepatology clinical treatment trials for over 10 years. She is the principal investigator for a clinical trial of eosinophilic esophagitis and co-investigator in treatment trials of hepatitis C and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.

Alejandro Suarez, MD. Palmetto Digestive Health Specialists (Charleston, S.C.). In addition to his role at Palmetto Digestive Health Specialists, Dr. Suarez is also an assistant professor adjunct at Yale University in New Haven, Conn. He has special interest in GI oncology, pancreaticobiliary disorders and interventional endoscopy.

Andrew Su, MD. Gateway Gastroenterology (Chesterfield, Mo.). Dr. Su has been with Gateway Gastroenterology since 1996. He has an interest in technological advances in endoscopy. He is a member of the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Abdulla Taja, MD. Gastroenterology of West Central Ohio (Lima). Dr. Taja has more than 25 years of experience and has served at Cook County Hospital in Chicago as well as at his own practice. His focus is on preventive care and early detection.

Mark Tanchel, MD. Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey (Hackensack). Dr. Tanchel has over two decades of private practice experience. He serves as a gastroenterologist at Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey and senior attending physician at Hackensack University Medical Center.

Clinton Wallis, MD. Digestive Disease Specialists (Oklahoma City). Dr. Wallis is board-certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology. He has been with Digestive Disease Specialists since 2006. Dr. Clinton is a member of a variety of organizations including the American College of Gastroenterology, the American Society of Gastroenterological Endoscopy and more.

Timothy Wang, MD. Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons (New York City). Dr. Wang was recently appointed the inaugural member of a medical advisory board for Mainz Biomed. He is also the Dorothy L. and Daniel H. Silverberg Professor of Medicine and GI division chief at the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.

James Weber, MD. GI Alliance (Southlake, Texas). Dr. Webster is the founder and CEO of independent gastroenterology provider network GI Alliance. He also founded Texas Digestive Disease Consultants in 1995.

Joseph Webster, MD. Digestive and Liver Center of Florida (Orlando). Dr. Webster’s research interests include obesity and diabetes in children and adolescents and the role of families in healthy attitudes and living. He is a member of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, a fellow of the American College of Physicians and a diplomate of the American Board of Gastroenterology.

Tony Weiss, MD. New York Gastroenterology Associates (New York City). Dr. Weiss is an assistant professor of medicine at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. He also serves as the school’s director of regulatory affairs/associate program director of the division of gastroenterology.

Richard Wille, MD. Center for Digestive Health (Troy, Mich.). In addition to his role at the Center for Digestive Health, Dr. Wille is also the director of the endoscopy unit at William Beaumont Hospital in Troy. In 1993, he served as the chief medical resident at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He has presented papers about gastrointestinal diseases at national conferences.

Louis Wong Kee Song, MD. Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minn.). Dr. Wong Kee Song has been with the Mayo Clinic since 1998 and has a special interest in therapeutic endoscopy. In addition to his clinical work, he is also a professor of medicine at the Mayo Clinic.

Renee Young, MD. University of Nebraska Medical Center (Omaha). Dr. Young is a professor in the Internal Medicine Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine. She has served the medical center since 1990. She is interested in medical student, resident and fellow education.

And finally, of course, you’re always welcome here at Gastro Health Partners, who have 18 specialists on staff for your gastroenterological needs. Visit our Patient Portal to get started on your journey to a healthier you!

The Colonoscopy: A Historical Timeline

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As we approach the end of this year’s Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, let’s take a closer look at something near and dear to our hearts: the colonoscopy. 

As the only screening test that detects and prevents cancer, the best test for finding precancerous polyps, and the only test recommended for people with risk factors such as personal history of polyps or cancer, the colonoscopy is truly a life-saving resource. Over 15 million colonoscopies are performed across the United States each year, reducing the widespread risk of colorectal cancer death by over 60%.

However, despite the colonoscopy’s widespread use and unequivocal standard of effectiveness, it is actually a fairly new methodology, one that took decades to be widely-known and well-established. While variations of the colonoscopy were first conceptualized throughout the 1960s, it wasn’t until the last few decades that the standards of quality which govern the colonoscopy as we know it came to be.

Follow along for a deep-dive into our favorite colorectal cancer screening test. 

1960s-70s: The Early Years

Up until the mid-1960s, the closest thing to a colonoscopy was an endoscopic procedure using a rigid sigmoidoscope. This device had very limited movement, reach, and was unable to actually remove polyps. 

In 1969, colleagues Dr. William Wolff and Dr. Hiromi Shinya of Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City invented the fiberoptic colonoscope, the first device to allow doctors to actually examine the entire length of the colon, thanks to its flexible, dynamic design.

Dr. Shinya also invented the polypectomy snare in 1969, a device which was able to physically remove colorectal polyps using a wire and electro-cauterizing mechanism. 

By 1973, the pair had performed over 5,000 colonoscopies, demonstrating the validity and safety of the procedure. 

1980s-90s: Increasing Awareness

In 1983, the Welch Allyn Corporation invented the first video endoscope, allowing doctors to see the procedure on-screen. Before, they were only able to observe the colon through a small eyepiece. 

Although the colonoscopy continued to develop, there was still a lack of general public accessibility and awareness towards the procedure. Many people opted for tests such as fecal occult blood testing and sigmoidoscopy. It wasn’t until 1985, when President Ronald Reagan underwent a life-saving colonoscopy, that the procedure began to garner national attention. 

In the mid-90s, the first screening recommendations were established in the United States. Adults over the age of 50 were suggested to receive regular colonoscopies. However, in a 1999 survey conducted by the CDC, only 40.3% of American adults over the age of 50 reported ever having a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.  

2000-Now: New Developments

In 2000, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) published the first colonoscopy guidelines. This seminal work allowed the quality of a colonoscopy to be measured with a numeric value, the Adenoma Detection Rate (ADR) as well as evaluate measures such as the quality of bowel preparation, patient assessments, rate of complications, cecal intubation rate, and withdrawal time. Doctors were finally able to be pragmatically evaluated for their ability to perform a colonoscopy. 

The early 21st century saw a significant increase in colonoscopies. Self-reported colonoscopies across the United States increased from 20% in 2000 to 47% in 2008. This can be contributed to many factors: a variety of educational campaigns and visibility measures pushed by doctors, government, and public organizations; Medicare coverage of colonoscopy, beginning in 2001; even celebrity stunts such as the Today Show’s Katie Couric’s publicized colonoscopy.

From 2000 to 2015, colon cancer rates rose considerably across increasingly younger populations. For adults aged 40-44, colorectal cancer incidence increased by 28%, for those aged 45-49, colorectal cancer increased by 15%, and while colonoscopy rates increased 17% in those aged 50–54. 

Rising colorectal cancer rates have led to efforts such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force’s 2020 recommendation that all adults aged 45-75 should be regularly screened. This was an update from the 2016 guidelines that suggested adults without risk factors should begin screening at the age of 50.

What is the future of the colonoscopy?

The colonoscope of the present remains largely unchanged from that first created by Dr. Wolff and Shinya in 1969. While it has developed in mechanical quality, such as flexibility and control, and now features a light source, suction device, lens cleaning, and a camera, it doesn’t really vary in its fundamental use: to observe and remove colorectal polyps, acting as both a diagnostic and therapeutic instrument. Why is this the case? Likely because it is highly effective at what it does! 

With this in mind, the most important development concerning colonoscopies, arguably, is in the public sphere. While the mechanisms of the procedure itself will undoubtedly continue to evolve and innovate, it’s important to consider the future of public access and opinion towards the colonoscopy.

There is still a surprising amount of misconception surrounding the colonoscopy. A 2020 survey of several European countries found that only 45% of people understood that it can prevent colon cancer. In the United States (pre-pandemic), around 68.8% of adults were up-to-date with their colonoscopy. Many people remain uninformed, fearful, and resistant to receiving the  life-saving screening test. Other people are limited by financial means or geographic accessibility to the procedure. 

By working to increase public awareness around the value of the colonoscopy, we can continue to prevent and reduce colorectal cancer deaths around the world. By educating your friends and loved ones about the importance of colonoscopy, partaking in events such as #DressInBlueDay and National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, getting involved with organizations like the Colon Cancer Coalition, and getting screened, yourself, you can help promote widespread change. 

See new infographics created by the Digestive Health Physicians Association below. To read stories about people’s experiences with colonoscopies and colorectal cancer, click here. To see our favorite online resources for promoting awareness, click here. To learn more about what exactly colorectal cancer is, click here.

The colonoscopy a historical timelineColorectal screening tests

An Overview of Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests

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March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to spread awareness and learn more about the risks associated with colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer and the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the world. In the United States this year, an estimated 151,030 adults will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and ​​an estimated 52,580 will die from the disease. 

Despite its significant rate of incidence, colorectal cancer is highly preventable through the use of screening tests. Gastroenterology Health Partners, in conjunction with the American Cancer Society and Digestive Health Partners Association, recommends that those with an average risk start screenings at age 45. 

Of the colorectal cancer screening tests that we offer, colonoscopy remains the gold-standard of effectiveness and is strongly suggested for anyone eligible. Observational studies have suggested that colonoscopy can reduce colorectal cancer occurrence by 40% and mortality rates by 60%. 

If you’re considering scheduling a screening test, talk to an experienced gastroenterologist. They can help you make the right decision for your needs. 

Keep reading to learn about six commonly-offered colorectal cancer screening tests.

6 Common Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests

1. Colonoscopy

As mentioned above, the colonoscopy is the best diagnostic tool available. This out-patient procedure involves the use of a thin, flexible tube with a camera to exam the lining of the colon (large intestine) for abnormalities such as polyps. Some polyps can be removed with a scope during the procedure. Your doctor may also take tissue samples for analysis as well.

While the colonoscopy does require prep and recovery time, it is a fast, virtually risk-free procedure. Afterwards, your doctor will discuss your results with you and recommend whether you should be screened in 1, 5, or 10 years. To learn more about the colonoscopy, how it works, how to prepare, and more, read here. 

2. Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)

Often considered the second choice after a colonoscopy, the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) offers a non-invasive method for identifying colorectal cancer. The test, often performed at home, tests for hidden (occult) blood in the stool. This unnoticeable blood is often an early-sign of colorectal cancer. 

If you test positive for hidden blood during a FIT test, your doctor will want to perform another test, most likely a colonoscopy. FIT, unlike colonoscopy, is unable to actually identify or remove polyps and abnormal tissue. Therefore, the FIT is not really a viable “preventative” test and has a much lower accuracy rate. 

3. CT Colonography

The CT Colonography is also known as a “virtual colonoscopy.” This test uses a CT scan (a form of x-ray technology) to exam the colon for polyps. A small scope is inserted slightly into the colon to inflate it with air. Then, pictures are taken of the entire colon. The CT Colonography is highly effective, and, unlike a colonoscopy, it doesn’t require sedation. However, unlike a colonoscopy, this exam doesn’t actually remove precancerous polyps, it only can identify them.

4. Cologuard

Cologuard is another non-invasive, at-home colon screening test. Much like the FIT test, it looks at stool DNA samples. While Cologuard is generally more effective than FIT, it still doesn’t compare to the effectiveness of the colonoscopy–while colonoscopy is known to identify over 70% of precancerous polyps, Cologuard only identifies around 42%.

5. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a comparable procedure to the colonoscopy. It is an exam of the lower part of the colon using a small, flexible, lighted tube. The tube, called a flexible sigmoidoscope, has a camera which allows the doctor to view the inside of the rectum and the sigmoid colon—about the last two feet of the large intestine. Unlike a colonoscopy, this procedure does not allow the doctor to see the entire colon; any cancers or polyps far in the colon cannot be detected. 

6. Capsule Endoscopy

A capsule endoscopy is a procedure that examines the lining of the middle part of the small intestine, the duodenum, jejunum and ileum. This procedure is necessary because a standard endoscope or colonoscope cannot reach this part of the bowel. Capsule endoscopy is often used to search for causes of bleeding as well as detect polyps, tumors, ulcers, and IBD.

During this procedure, the patient will swallow a tiny pill containing a video camera, light source, and battery. The camera will take 2-3 pictures per second for up to 12 hours, traveling through the GI tract. The photos are saved automatically to a recording device and strung into a video. 

While capsule endoscopy is effective for detecting and documenting significant lesions attributed to conditions such as IBD, tumors, and ulcers, it is significantly less effective as a colon screening test compared to colonoscopy. 

 When it comes to colon cancer screenings, the experienced medical team at Gastroenterology Health Partners is here to serve you. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment at one of our offices in Southern Indiana or Kentucky, contact a Gastroenterology Health Partners location near you.

What is Adenoma Detection Rate (ADR)?

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For decades, the screening colonoscopy has been recognized as the most effective modality to prevent and detect colorectal cancer. By identifying and  removing precancerous polyps (adenomas), colonoscopies save thousands of  lives each year. Regularly-scheduled screening colonoscopies are crucial for  adults aged 45 and older.  

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness and quality of each colonoscopy varies from doctor to doctor. Different levels of education,  experience, and methodologies have been found to influence the “success” of a medical practitioner at performing screening colonoscopies. These case-by-case disparities ultimately led to a need for a standard of quality, a numerical  framework. In 2002, a Multi-Society Task Force was assembled to create just that: the adenoma detection rate, or ADR. ADR gives a percentage value to  each doctor’s levels of safety, quality, and thoroughness when performing a  colonoscopy.  

How does ADR work? ADR measures the average rate of precancerous polyps that a doctor identifies and removes in each colonoscopy. In the U.S., it has been  established that at least 30% of men and 20% of women aged 50+ should have  one or more adenoma found in a colonoscopy. It has been found that doctors  that meet or exceed these national quality benchmarks are generally more likely to prevent colorectal cancer, including advanced-stage or fatal cancer. In fact, even a marginally higher ADR can indicate a significant improvement in outcome. Likewise, doctors with lower-than-average ADRs have been connected with the  failure to identify cases of colorectal cancer.  

While the ADR is considered the “gold-standard” of evaluating endoscopic quality, it is not the only measure of a doctor’s ability to identify polyps. Other well-regarded quality metrics include practices such as: the quality of bowel  preparation; patient assessments; compliance rates with general screening  guidelines; rate of complications; cecal intubation rate; withdrawal time (the  amount of time a doctor should spend withdrawing the colonoscope at the end of  the procedure, which should be at least 6 minutes); and documentation of  informed consent. 

By meeting and exceeding these standards of safety and thoroughness, your doctor directly improves your chance of identifying or preventing colorectal  cancer. Therefore, it’s not rude or uncommon to ask about your doctor’s ADR,  withdrawal time, or other procedures that ensure a quality colonoscopy. These  are serious, relevant questions that can aid in your decision to choose a gastroenterologist.  

Our board-certified team of gastroenterologists has addressed many common concerns related to colonoscopies on our website. Click on any of the questions below to see complete answers: 

  1. When should I get a colonoscopy? Isn’t 45 too young?
  2. What should I expect from my colonoscopy? How should I prepare for it? What happens during and after?
  3. Where can I read about someone else’s experience with colon cancer? 
  4. I tend to be constipated. How should I prepare for my colonoscopy?
  5. Why should I get a colonoscopy instead of other screening tests? What makes it more effective? (Video)
  6. What’s the difference between a screening colonoscopy, Cologuard, and other screening tests? (Video)

The experienced team of medical professionals at Gastroenterology Health Partners is committed to making every patient’s experience with a colonoscopy as easy and effective as possible. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Gastroenterology Health Partners today at a location near you.

Getting Ready For A Colonoscopy Prep When You Tend To Be Constipated

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Preparing for your colonoscopy is important because it enables your physician to visibly access all areas of your colon to provide the best screening possible. A successful prep – one where your colon is thoroughly cleansed in advanced – makes it easier for your gastroenterologist to do their job thoroughly and accurately. When patients do not have a successful colonoscopy preparation, and stool is still visible in the colon, it makes it much harder for your doctor to do a thorough evaluation.

If you’re a person that tends to struggle regularly with constipation, the colonoscopy prep may be a bigger concern. You may wonder if the prep will actually work and feel an added worry about how this relates to the actual procedure. Fortunately, there are some additional things you can do a week or so in advance to make the entire process easier and more successful.

People who are often constipated frequently have a longer, tortuous colon which may be more challenging to completely empty out. In these cases, your doctor may provide some additional guidance regarding your prep.  Follow along for some helpful suggestions for preparing for your colonoscopy if you tend to be constipated.

8 Things To Know If You Are Preparing For A Colonoscopy And Are Often Constipated

1. You should tell your doctor in advance that you struggle with constipation. People who tend to be constipated may have to think about their colonoscopy prep further in advance than those who are not. Make sure to let your doctor know in advance if constipation is something that you struggle with frequently. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your doctor may advise additional things like Dulcolax to help make sure your colonoscopy prep is a success.

2. Ask your doctor about medications, vitamins and supplements you normally take. You may be advised to adjust your normal routine in some way depending on your situation.

3. Cut out high fiber foods several days before your procedure. This includes things like raw fruits and vegetables, canned and fresh corn, whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, popcorn, and wheat bread, all kinds of nuts, and seeds (including sunflower, sesame, and poppy). Focus instead of non-fibrous foods like soups (without vegetables), eggs, yogurt, white bread and puddings.

4. Your doctor may advise you to begin the clear liquid diet for your prep a day early (two days in advance). This involves avoiding solid foods and consuming clear liquids that are NOT red, blue, or purple in color. This includes things like gelatin, clear broth, sports drinks with electrolytes, black coffee, fruit juice like apple or white grape, and popsicles.

5. It can be helpful to drink lots of extra water the week leading up to your procedure to make sure you are very well hydrated. Not only is hydration a key part of addressing constipation, but it also may help to make your overall prep experience easier. Keep in mind that if you tend to drink caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea, these tend to have a dehydrating effect on your body, and you may need to compensate with additional water.

6. Make the time to deal with your worry and stress. Sometimes constipation is exacerbated by stress. It is important that you recognize and deal with this if possible. Find ways to help yourself relax. Consider trying mindfulness, meditation and/or breathing exercises, listen to relaxing music, and engage in other healthy practices that help you feel calmer and more relaxed.

7. Prioritize a healthy routine including getting enough sleep leading up to the procedure. While it is always important to focus on a healthy routine, including getting enough sleep each night, it may become even more important the week leading up to your colonoscopy. This can help you feel your best for the procedure, enabling you to follow the prep with greater ease, also reducing your level of stress and worry.

8. Don’t be embarrassed, constipation is something many people experience. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney diseases, constipation is common among people of every age and population in the U.S. Approximately 16% of adults experience symptoms of constipation on a regular basis, with this number increasing with age, to a third of adults 60 years and older.

Data reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that upwards of one in three adults ages 45 to 75 has not had a colonoscopy, the recommended screening for colorectal cancer. While there are many reasons why people may opt to avoid this recommended procedure, concerns about what is required to prepare for the exam certainly play a role for some.

The experienced team of medical professionals at Gastroenterology Health Partners is committed to making every patient’s experience with a colonoscopy as low stress and easy as possible. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Gastroenterology Health Partners today at a location near you.

Importance of Colon Screening in Younger Adults – Dr. Sohi Interviewed

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Dr. Sunana Sohi of Gastroenterology Health Partners was recently featured in a WHAS-11 article and video about the increasing rates of colon cancer in younger adults.

The story featured Amanda Blackburn, a 37 year-old mother of two who was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2017. She received a diagnosis after coming to Dr. Sohi with her symptoms of rectal bleeding and a change in bowel habits.

Blackburn had no family history of colon cancer and knew very little about the disease, like many younger adults. “It wasn’t on my radar. The ‘C’ word wasn’t a thing for me,” she said.

Dr. Sohi was able to help Blackburn receive diagnosis and treatment.

“If you have symptoms, don’t wait. There are a lot of tests that can be done, including stool tests, but the number one, the gold standard is colonoscopy. That’s because it’s not only diagnostic but preventative, where we can find and remove small polyps before they become cancer,” Dr. Sohi said.

Read the rest of the Dr. Sohi’s write-up here.

Colon Cancer is not a disease of the elderly anymore; article

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The article also discussed the upcoming Kicking Butt 5K Run/Walk, scheduled for Saturday September 25th at the Louisville Waterfront Park. This event, sponsored by the Colon Cancer Prevention Project, was started in 2003 as a way to bring together cancer survivors and advocates, spread awareness, and encourage screenings. It’s not too late to sign up for the 5K, 1 mile, or virtual event, and support this worthy cause.

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of colon cancer or another GI condition, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Sohi or one of the many experienced physicians at Gastroenterology Health Partners.

As the largest independent gastroenterology practice in the region, GHP is considered the only one of its kind providing results-orientated treatment for a full spectrum of digestive system disorders. Call to set up an appointment at one of our locations in Southern Indiana, Northeast & Central Louisville, and Lexington.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait To Get A Colorectal Cancer Screening

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Are you on the fence about getting screened for colorectal cancer? Perhaps you think you’re too young to get cancer, or you don’t have a family history of it, or you’re anxious about the procedure. You push off the appointment, allowing yourself to think, “I’ll do it sometime soon…”

When it comes to colorectal cancer screenings, you shouldn’t ever wait. Regular screenings are recommended for those 45 years and older, and even younger if you have certain risk factors. For example, people with certain inherited conditions are at a higher risk for colon cancer, including those with Lynch syndrome and those with adenomatous polyopsis. You are also at higher risk if you suffer from certain inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s colitis, or ulcerative colitis.

Early detection is the key to effectively dealing with colorectal cancer. When detected early, colorectal cancer has a 95% survival rate. However, that rate drops to 25% if the cancer is not detected and spreads to other organs. 

Screening tests aren’t just used to identify existing cancer. Through screening, your doctor may find and eliminate precancerous polyps (abnormal tissue growths) in the rectum or colon, removing them before they even have the chance of becoming cancerous. Between 25-40% of adults in the United States are estimated to have colorectal polyps.

Colorectal Cancer Increases in Younger Populations 

While the overall occurrence of colorectal cancer has dropped in recent years (largely due to a rise in screenings), its rate among younger populations has actually increased. In fact, according to the American College of Gastroenterology, a millennial now has 2 times the risk of getting colon cancer and 4 times the risk of getting rectal cancer than someone from the baby boom generation. Research shows that rates in adults younger than 50 are continually increasing by 2%, every year. Mortality rates are also increasing.

What is causing this alarming change? Researchers attribute higher colorectal cancer rates in younger adults to a number of factors, including higher rates of obesity, more sedentary lifestyles, poor diet, and other environmental factors. A study released this May found a link between the consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks and colorectal cancer in women under 50. According to the study, women who drank two or more servings of sugary beverages had twice the risk of developing early-onset colorectal than those who consumed less. Furthermore, adolescents ages 13-18 who consumed sugary sodas had a 32% risk of eventually developing early-onset colorectal cancer. Research is only beginning to unlock certain lifestyle and dietary factors that play a role in developing colorectal cancer.

Colorectal Cancer and Covid-19

During the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, lockdowns and closings forced many people to cancel or put off every type of screening test. Colorectal screening tests in particular decreased by over 90%. In the following months, the numbers of tests only increased to 50% of what they were before the pandemic began. This drastic decline in testing is associated with troubling data about cancer outcomes. In June 2020, the National Cancer Institute predicted an excess of 10,000 colorectal cancer or breast cancer related deaths in the U.S. over the next 10 years, just because of pandemic-induced delays in testing, diagnoses, and treatments. Remaining up-to-date on testing is more important now than ever. 

If you’re due for a colorectal screening test or appointment, but are concerned about Covid-19 safety, don’t hesitate to book an appointment at Gastroenterology Health Partners. We uphold a number of safety procedures in-office, including mask requirements, cleaning and sanitization practices, disinfecting common spaces, and upholding social distancing when possible. Maintaining your safety is of the highest importance to us, just as is providing you with colorectal screening tests such as colonoscopies, flexible sigmoidoscopies, and more. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.

ValueOfColonoscopy.org: ASGE’s Useful Awareness and Screening Tool

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There are a lot of great resources if you are interested in learning more about colon cancer and screenings. One of our favorites comes from the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscoy (ASGE). The ASGE has a plethora of resources including videos, a screening tool, and statistics at ValueOfColonoscopy.org. Today on the blog, we’ll take you through some of the useful resources on the website.

Screening Tool: Determining Which Test You Should Get

One question many people have about screenings is which test to get. There are numerous options available. It can be confusing when figuring out which is the best fit. Fortunately, the ASGE created a tool that helps you identify the screening method that’s right for you. In a simple yet informative document, they take you through your options based on your risk level (no personal or family history of colon polyps or cancer, family history, or personal history). This tool shows you how these factors impact when you should be screened, how often, and with which screening method. For example, if you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, it shows that you should have a screening as early as age 40. It also shows that a colonoscopy is best screening given your family history. It recommends talking with your doctor to establish a plan.

Colonoscopies during the Pandemic

During the pandemic, many people have had valid concerns about the safety of activities like doctor’s visits. This has actually impacted how many colonoscopies doctors have performed, and as a result an increase in the number of missed colorectal cancer diagnoses (read our blog post here to learn more). In a video, the ASGE shows how many steps medical professionals are taking to ensure your safety during screenings. They talk about pre-arrival screenings, in-office distancing and barriers, masking, PPE, testing, staff vaccinations, and more. We highly recommend watching this video to get a clear picture of how safe your screening will be. Plus, read our blog post here about what we have been doing at GHP to keep you safe.

Tips as you Prepare for a Colonoscopy

Another important thing this website covers is common patient FAQs leading up to a colonoscopy. The ASGE has a number of helpful guides and tips for you as you prepare for a screening. For example, they have a webpage dedicated to understanding bowel prep, an aspect of screening that many patients dread. They discuss the importance of bowel prep, what type of prep you may need to pursue, and other helpful tips. They even discuss common side effects, specific steps in prepping, and what to do if you forget to take prep medication. This is a great resource to help you make sure your screening is as effective as possible. The ASGE also has content and FAQs that help you understand colon polyps and colonoscopies.

Our experienced team at GHP has years of experience screening for colorectal cancer. We can help establish the best plan of care for your situation. Read more about how we perform screenings here. Contact any of our office locations to learn about the options we offer and schedule an appointment today.

How has the Pandemic Affected Colonoscopies?

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The coronavirus pandemic has impacted our lives in countless ways. From finances to health and other aspects of life, it has changed how we live each day. In particular, many common medical check-ups, screenings, and elective procedures have been put on hold or delayed. One of these, the colonoscopy, has seen significantly decreased rates during the pandemic. This is a serious issue, as we know colonoscopies are a key screening strategy to prevent colorectal cancer. On today’s blog, we’ll take a look at how the pandemic has affected colonoscopies.

Colonoscopies During the Pandemic

Early on in the pandemic in 2020, medical practices put many elective and non-essential medical visits and procedures on hold. As a result, screenings for cancer like colonoscopies dropped significantly. One study examining screening rates in the San Francisco area found that colonoscopies decreased about 90% from February to May 2020. This coincided with an 85% decrease in fecal immunochemical testing (FIT), another screening method in the same time frame. There was also a 70% decrease in all in-person appointments, and a 60% increase in telehealth visits. Another report estimated that if that trend continued through early June 2020, there could be around 19,000 missed colorectal cancer diagnoses and over 4,000 additional colorectal cancer deaths across the United States.

These are significant impacts, and compound existing inequities in health outcomes. Many groups that have an increased risk of colorectal cancer have also experienced a higher risk of death from the coronavirus. These groups include Black, Native American, and Hispanic people.

Clearly, the pandemic has caused cascading public health problems. Fortunately, as we have learned more about the coronavirus, medical practices have been able to respond to transmission threats to practice safely. Masking, social distancing, sanitizing, and now vaccinations for medical staff have helped to create safe spaces for patients to receive medical care.

Importance of Screening for Colorectal Cancer

Screening for colorectal cancer is extremely important. When properly done, it has a high success rate at cancer prevention. With a colonoscopy, doctors can identify and remove precancerous polyps that could otherwise develop into cancer over time. The colonoscopy is the gold standard for screenings. When patients get colonoscopies on a proper schedule, the incidence of colorectal cancer falls by around 90%.

Gastro Health Partners, in line with various other organizations, is now endorsing regular screenings starting at age 45. Previously, 50 was the standard for beginning screenings. By changing this to 45, we can prevent more potential cases of cancer and save lives. If you are close to 45 or older, talk with your doctor about getting screened. They will take your situation into account and may recommend earlier or more frequent screenings depending on factors like family history and personal history of polyps.

Our experienced team at GHP has years of experience screening for colorectal cancer. We can help establish the best plan of care for your situation. Read more about how we perform screenings here. Contact any of our office locations to learn about the options we offer and schedule an appointment today.

Colorectal Cancer and Age, Race, and Ethnicity

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Colorectal cancer is not experienced equally by everyone. In the past several years, younger people have experienced increased colorectal cancer rates and deaths. Additionally, Black people and American Indians experience more cases of this cancer and related deaths. Here’s what you need to know about how this disease affects different people.

Colorectal Cancer in Younger Adults

Rates of colorectal cancer have been on the rise for younger and younger adults over the last several years. According to the American Cancer Society, while rates for adults 50 and older have fallen due to increased screenings, the opposite trend has occurred for younger adults. Recently, people 65 and older have experienced a decrease of around 3% per year from 2011 to 2016. In contrast, people ages 50 to 64 have seen rates rise by 1% per year in the same time frame. People under 50 have actually seen rates rise by 2.2% per year in the same window. Clearly, younger adults are seeing steeper increases in cases. Death rates have followed similar patterns. Death rates for colorectal cancer also vary by age group. Between 2008 and 2017, death rates fell by 3% per year in people 65 and older and dropped by 0.6% in people 50 to 64. However, they rose by 1.3% in people younger than 50.

Fortunately, colorectal cancer can be very treatable if it’s caught early. Younger adults should be aware of warning signs. These include changes in bowel movements (particularly over two weeks or more), rectal bleeding, unusual stools, and tiredness or low energy. If they have any of these symptoms, they should see their doctor.

Disparities Based on Race and Ethnicity

Along with age, looking at colorectal cancer rates and death rates based on race and ethnicity shows significant variation. The American Cancer Society’s data from 2012-2016 showed that rates were dramatically different based on race. Rates for Asian people and Pacific Islanders were the lowest at 30 per 100,000. Non-Hispanic white people had a rate of 39 per 100,000, and Black people had a rate of 46 per 100,000. Alaska Natives and American Indians had the highest rate, at 89 per 100,000. Death rates vary significantly as well- colorectal cancer rates are around 20% higher for Black people than non-Hispanic white people, but death rates are nearly 40% higher in Black people. Additionally, for Alaska Natives and American Indians, death rates are about double the rate for Black people.

Early Screenings Save Lives

While many of these statistics are troubling, we do know that screening early is an effective way to catch more cases of colorectal cancer. More and more organizations, including Gastro Health Partners, are pushing for earlier screenings and research on the disparities around this disease. Early screenings save lives.

Our experienced team at GHP has years of experience screening for and treating colorectal cancer. We can help establish the best plan of care for your situation. Contact any of our office locations to learn about the options we offer and schedule an appointment today.