Because Digestive Health Matters

International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders January 2024 eNewsletter

Happy New Year GI Community! As we embark on another year around the sun, we at IFFGD are excited to continue supporting you on your journey towards optimal digestive health. 


As the dawn breaks on a new year, we're often filled with a sense of renewal and a desire to become the best versions of ourselves. Resolutions are made, goals are set, and ambitions for a healthier and happier life take shape. For many, this includes the pursuit of physical and mental well-being.


But what if you have a chronic digestive disorder? Does that mean your goals are out of reach? Absolutely not! In this newsletter, we'll explore practical tips and strategies to help you achieve your 2024 goals, even with a digestive condition. We'll empower you to navigate potential challenges and create a path to success, enabling you to reach your full potential and live a fulfilling year.

2024 Nancy and Bill Norton Research Program Awards

We are pleased to announce a call for applications for the 2024 Nancy and Bill Norton Research Program Awards. This year, we will be awarding 1 Research Grant of $40,000, 1 Preceptorship Award of up to $5,000, and 15 Travel Awards of up to $2,000.

 

  • One research grant award of $40,000 to go towards direct costs is available for innovative research related to gastrointestinal disorders. For projects with total estimated costs greater than the amount of the award, additional sources of funds may be used to complete the project. All financial resources will be acknowledged in any research report. You can learn more about this research grant and eligibility as well as access the application form here.


  • One preceptorship award of up to $5,000 is available to early career physicians or advanced practice providers with an interest in clinical aspects of functional gastrointestinal (GI) and motility disorders to visit a medical center with expertise in these disorders for four weeks. You can learn more about this preceptorship award and eligibility as well as access the application form here.


  • Fifteen travel awards of up to $2,000 each are available for young researchers focused on research in the area of gastrointestinal disorders. You can learn more about these travel awards and eligibility as well as access the application form here.


The deadline for submitting applications is rapidly approaching! Submit your application to iffgd@iffgd.org no later than this Friday, January 12, 2024 by midnight.


IFFGD’s 2024 research program awards are made possible by the 2023 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness Event. Learn more here.

Diagnostic Tools for Detecting GI Infections

Acute gastroenteritis occurs when the stomach and intestines are infected by a microbe that has entered the body orally. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites such as bacterial GI infections, viral gastroenteritis, or parasitic gastrointestinal infections. Symptoms of these infections may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. 


A healthcare provider may use a variety of tools to diagnose you, including stool tests, culture-based methods, PCR and Molecular-based methods, serological tests, or blood tests. Your healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and choose the test best suited for diagnosis. 


Click the button below to learn about the different testing methods.

Diagnostic Tools for Detecting GI Infections

IBS Travel Tips

Living with IBS extends far beyond occasional discomforts. Irregular and often painful bowel movements present a complex set of challenges, with limited effective treatment options available. This can be particularly true for those who travel often. The constant fear of unpredictable symptoms and lack of control when away from home can significantly impact travel experiences.


If you're one of the many individuals facing these challenges, this guide offers helpful tips to manage your IBS symptoms while traveling. By implementing these strategies, you can navigate your journeys with greater confidence and control, enhancing your overall travel experience.


Click the button below to view some tips.

IBS Travel Tips

Dietitians Listing

Are you looking to improve your dietary habits as part of your New Year's resolutions?

 

Explore our directory of registered dietitians, featuring qualified professionals located nationwide who offer both in-person and virtual consultations. Whether you're looking to improve your overall health, manage a chronic condition, or make healthier food choices, a registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance and support to help you reach your goals.

 

Click the button below to start browsing.

Dietitians Listing

Is a Colonoscopy in Your Near Future? Here's What to Expect

While colonoscopies are crucial for early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer, especially with rising rates, they serve many other important purposes. This informative fact sheet provides insights into the various reasons for undergoing this procedure, helping demystify the process and alleviate any anxieties you might have.


By understanding the different scenarios for colonoscopies, you can make informed decisions about your health and feel empowered to take control of your well-being.


Click the button below to learn more about colonoscopies.

Is a Colonoscopy in Your Near Future? Here's What to Expect
Clinical trials and research studies help to improve our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of diseases and advance the development of new and better treatment options. By participating in a study, you can help further the advancement of research and learn more about your condition.

Here are 3 studies currently recruiting participants:

Pediatric GI (IBS-C)

A 12-Week, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 3 Study to Assess the Safety and Efficacy of Tenapanor for the Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) in Pediatric Patients 12 to Less than 18 Years Old

Diverticulitis

Investigation of Medical Management to Prevent Episodes of Diverticulitis Trial (IMPEDE)

LPR

Reflux Band in Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

January Spotlight

IFFGD Junior Academician Dr. Eric Shah

Dr. Eric Shah is an adult gastroenterologist specialized in treating esophageal disorders such as achalasia, difficulty swallowing, eosinophilic esophagitis, and acid reflux. He also works with patients suffering from pelvic floor disorders and hemorrhoids. Dr. Shah directs a medical technology and innovation research laboratory that conducts clinical trials to help patients gain access to the right evidence-based medical innovation and technology in their local primary and specialty care practices.


Dr. Shah's laboratory also leads health economics studies and collaborates with IFFGD on critical project to improve patient access to the effective and affordable healthcare they deserve. Recent examples of collaborations include national efforts to address prior authorization barriers to prescription drug coverage and to help patients gain access to the evidence-based tests that evaluate causes of heartburn, constipation, and difficulty swallowing. 

 
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IFFGD is a nonprofit organization. We rely on donor support to fund research and to provide reliable information and support to those affected by chronic gastrointestinal disorders.
IFFGD | 414-964-1799 | iffgd@iffgd.org | www.iffgd.org
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