Healthcare is advancing rapidly, with new technologies promising to transform how we treat medical conditions.
Neil D. Parikh, M.D.
Chief Innovation Officer, CTGI; Chair, Innovation Committee, GI Alliance; Chief, Gastroenterology, Hartford Hospital; Host, “The Gut Doctor” Podcast
In gastroenterology, innovations are making it possible for doctors to deliver bespoke care, which tailors treatments based on individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all model.
The goal is simple: to provide the best care possible, using the latest technologies and practices that fit your unique situation. Personalized care can also mean more accurate diagnoses, better outcomes, and treatments that fit seamlessly into your life.
The need for better GI care
Did you know that between 60 and 70 million adults in the United States suffer from digestive (GI) issues? Conditions like heartburn, bloating, and more serious diseases like colorectal cancer can greatly affect your quality of life. Research shows that 40% of people with GI conditions avoid normal activities like exercising or spending time with family. This is a problem because many GI conditions can be improved, or even prevented, with early diagnosis and proper care.
Unfortunately, many people wait too long to discuss their symptoms with a doctor. One-third of patients with GI problems don’t mention their symptoms unless their doctor asks. This delay can make it harder to treat conditions like colorectal cancer, where early detection is critical.
Even when you’re ready to seek help, getting an appointment can sometimes be difficult. This is why improving access to care, reducing costs, and making sure your experience as a patient is as comfortable as possible are top priorities in healthcare today.
New innovations making a difference
Exciting new technologies are making personalized care easier and more effective than ever. Below are a few ways healthcare is improving for people like you:
1. Early detection of esophageal cancer — Esophageal cancer is often diagnosed late, making it harder to treat. However, a pre-cancer condition called Barrett’s esophagus can be detected earlier with new, less invasive screening methods. Traditionally, doctors used endoscopy (inserting a camera down your throat) to look for signs of Barrett’s esophagus. Now, a simpler option exists: swallowing a small balloon device that collects cells from your esophagus. This innovation could make it easier and faster to catch this serious condition early.
2. At-home colon cancer screening — Colon cancer is another GI condition where early detection can save lives. However, many people avoid getting screened due to the inconvenience of scheduling a colonoscopy or concerns about bowel preparation. New at-home tests allow you to check for colon cancer from the comfort of your home. Recently, a blood test for colon cancer detection was approved. These non-invasive tests can help increase screening rates and catch cancer earlier, but patients need to remain informed regarding the accuracy of these at-home tests compared to a colonoscopy.
Regardless of the screening method, doctors are innovating in colonoscopy procedures using AI to make colon cancer prevention even more accurate and effective.
3. AI and machine learning (ML) — AI and ML are making significant contributions to GI care, particularly in detecting GI cancers. These technologies analyze images from procedures like colonoscopies to help doctors identify precancerous polyps more accurately. AI scans every frame of a video during a colonoscopy, allowing doctors to catch even the smallest abnormalities.
4. Microbiome analysis — Your gut is home to trillions of tiny organisms that play a big role in your overall health. An imbalance in these organisms (called your microbiome) can lead to GI issues. Doctors can now analyze your microbiome to understand which bacteria are causing problems, and recommend personalized diets or probiotics to restore balance and improve your health.
The future of GI care is personal
The future of gastroenterology is exciting. Not only are we moving toward more personalized care, but we are also improving how and where you receive treatment. Though challenges remain, such as insurance and regulatory hurdles, the GI care of the future will be more personal, more precise, and more focused on what works best for you.
