It’s graduation time, and many grads are heading to the tattoo studio for their first body art experience. They may want to think twice, or at least take precautions. There has been much discussion lately about the alarming rise in hepatitis C, especially the growing number of deaths from this liver-destroying disease.
Acid Reflux on the Rise
The American Gastroenterological Association reports that more than 60 million Americans experience symptoms of heartburn (caused by acid reflux) at least once each month, while a long-term Norwegian study recently revealed that that the number of people who experience acid reflux at least once a week has increased by 50% in the last 10 years.
Patients are the true test of performance quality
Gastrointestinal Associates is committed to providing our patients with top quality medical care, whether you are coming in for an office visit or are a patient at one of our Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs). But how do you measure quality?
Leading the way in GI Healthcare
We are proud to be a national leader in research and technology in the field of gastrointestinal disease. At GIA, our goal is to advance the treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal illness and provide the best state-of-the-art health care for our patients.
Good news for southern women: reduced risk of inflammatory bowel disease
A recent study presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology suggests that in the United States southern women are less likely than their northern counterparts to suffer from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Researchers believe this is attributable to the extra time that southern women spend in the sun’s ultraviolet rays, thereby increasing their Vitamin D levels.
Oh, my aching gallbladder!
With gallstone disease affecting well over 25 million people in the United States, chances are that you or someone close to you has either already suffered from gallstone disease or will face it in their lifetime.
Brachytherapy offers targeted treatment for esophageal cancer
Brachytherapy is our newest tool in the treatment of esophageal cancer.
Heed the warning signs of Pancreatitis
The pancreas, an organ in your upper abdomen, has several important functions. It secretes fluids into the bowel to help you digest your food. It also secretes hormones into the blood, one being insulin which regulates blood sugar levels. When the pancreas becomes inflamed for any reason, it is called pancreatitis.
Osteoporosis Medications Can Cause Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Fifty-four percent of postmenopausal women in the United States have a low bone mass density, increasing their risk for hip and vertebral fractures. To combat this risk, a growing number of physicians are prescribing osteoporosis medications. Bisphosphonate, an ingredient in medications such as Boniva, Actonel and Fosamax, has been linked to stomach pain, heartburn and ulcers. A recent Oxford University … Read More
GI Roundtable highlights focus on patient care
Recently I was privileged to be a part of a national GI Roundtable held here in Knoxville. During the course of two days, 130 invited leaders of gastrointestinal practices from across the country came together to discuss health care reform and the future of gastroenterology.