Historical Obesity and Early-Onset Cancers: A Propensity-Weighted Analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

BACKGROUND

The incidence of early-onset obesity-related cancers (diagnosed < 50 years) is increasing in the U.S. We examined the reported historical body mass index (BMI) of adults with early and later-onset cancers to explore relation to obesity.

METHODS

We queried the 1999-2018 NHANES database for adults diagnosed with obesity-related cancers (colorectal, non-colorectal gastrointestinal, uterine, breast). We classified early and late-onset cancer based on a diagnosis age of < 50 and ≥ 50 years, respectively. Propensity-weighted analysis was used to compare prior historical BMIs between the matched groups.

RESULTS

After weighing, we included 2,966,528 patients with obesity-related cancers, 846,211 (28%) of which were < 50 years. In the matched analysis, 69.1% of early-onset CRC cases were diagnosed as obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) before cancer diagnosis, compared to 47.2% of late-onset cases (p < 0.03). Similarly, a higher percentage of adults with other early-onset gastrointestinal cancers had prior obesity as compared to the late-onset cohort (70.3% vs. 40.5%, p = 0.0002). BMI showed a trend toward higher values at ages 20-24 for early-onset CRC and 30-34 for other gastrointestinal cancers. In contrast, later-onset CRC and other gastrointestinal cancers exhibited higher BMI values at later ages (30-34 and 35-39, respectively). Early-onset uterine cancer was linked to a higher BMI compared to later-onset cancer (34.0 vs. 31.1 kg/m2, p < 0.0001), with a trend towards a higher BMI before 19 years old.

CONCLUSIONS

Our nationally representative data reveal that higher and earlier body fatness in adulthood associates with early-onset gastrointestinal and uterine cancers. These findings underscore the importance of intensifying efforts to combat early-life obesity.

The impact of bariatric surgery on admissions for gastrointestinal complications and conditions associated with obesity: A nationwide study

BACKGROUND

Obesity worsens various gastrointestinal pathologies. While bariatric surgery ameliorates obesity, it substantially modifies the gastrointestinal system depending on surgery type, with limited data on subsequent impact on obesity-related gastrointestinal admissions.

METHODS

Using the 2012-2014 Nationwide Readmission Database, we included individuals with obesity who received vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), or hernia repair (HR-control surgery). Our main focus was the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for gastrointestinal inpatient admissions within 6 months following surgery compared to the 6 months preceding it, while controlling for several confounding factors. Gastrointestinal admissions were grouped into postoperative complications or obesity-associated gastrointestinal conditions.

RESULTS

Our cohort included 140,103 adults with RYGB, 132,253 with VSG, and 12,436 HR controls. Postoperative gastrointestinal complications were most common after RYGB, prominently obstruction (aOR = 33.17, 95%CI: 18.01, 61.10), and Clostridium difficile infection (aOR: 12.52, 95%CI: 6.22, 25.19). VSG also saw significantly increased but less frequent similar conditions. Notably, for gastrointestinal conditions associated with obesity, acute pancreatitis risk was higher post-VSG (aOR = 6.26, 95%CI: 4.02, 9.73). Post-RYGB patients were most likely to be admitted for cholelithiasis with cholecystitis (aOR: 4.15, 95% CI: 3.24, 5.31), followed by chronic liver disease (aOR: 3.00, 95% CI: 2.33, 3.87). The risk of noninfectious colitis admissions was threefold higher after RYGB and VSG. No gastrointestinal conditions showed an increase after HR.

CONCLUSION

Despite weight loss, bariatric surgery was associated with an increased risk of hepato-pancreatobiliary and colitis admissions related to obesity in the first six postoperative months, with considerable variations in rates of gastrointestinal conditions by surgery type.

Distinctive patterns of sulfide- and butyrate-metabolizing bacteria after bariatric surgery: potential implications for colorectal cancer risk

Despite improved cardiometabolic outcomes following bariatric surgery, its long-term impact on colorectal cancer (CRC) risk remains uncertain. In parallel, the influence of bariatric surgery on the host microbiome and relationships with disease outcomes is beginning to be appreciated. Therefore, we investigated the impact of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) on the patterns of sulfide-reducing and butyrate-producing bacteria, which are hypothesized to modulate CRC risk after bariatric surgery. In this single-center, cross-sectional study, we included 15 pre-surgery subjects with severe obesity and patients who are at a median (range) of 25.6 (9.9-46.5) months after RYGB (n = 16) or VSG (n = 10). The DNA abundance of fecal bacteria and enzymes involved in butyrate and sulfide metabolism were identified using metagenomic sequencing. Differences between pre-surgery and post-RYGB or post-VSG cohorts were quantified using the linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size (LEfSe) method. Our sample was predominantly female (87%) with a median (range) age of 46 (23-71) years. Post-RYGB and post-VSG patients had a higher DNA abundance of fecal sulfide-reducing bacteria than pre-surgery controls (LDA = 1.3-4.4, p < .05). The most significant enrichments were for fecal E. coli, Acidaminococcus and A. finegoldii after RYGB, and for A. finegoldii, S. vestibularis, V. parvula after VSG. As for butyrate-producing bacteria, R. faecis was more abundant, whereas B. dentium and A. hardus were lower post-RYGB vs. pre-surgery. B. dentium was also lower in post-VSG vs. pre-surgery. Consistent with these findings, our analysis showed a greater enrichment of sulfide-reducing enzymes after bariatric surgery, especially RYGB, vs. pre-surgery. The DNA abundance of butyrate-producing enzymes was lower post-RYGB. In conclusion, the two most used bariatric surgeries, RYGB and VSG, are associated with microbiome patterns that are potentially implicated in CRC risk. Future studies are needed to validate and understand the impact of these microbiome changes on CRC risk after bariatric surgery.

The Risk of Colorectal Polyps after Weight Loss Therapy Versus Obesity: A Propensity-Matched Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

A fundamental understanding of the impact of bariatric surgery (BRS) on mechanisms of colorectal carcinogenesis is limited. For instance, studies report a reduced risk of colorectal cancer in females but not in males after BRS. We examined whether this sex-specific difference existed at the earlier polyp development stage.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 281,417 adults from the 2012-2020 MarketScan database. We compared polyps rates on colonoscopy in four groups: post- vs. pre-BRS (treatment) to post- vs. pre-severe obesity (SO) diagnosis (control). We focused our main analysis on a propensity-matched sample that yielded a balanced distribution of covariates in our four groups (n = 9680 adults, 21.9% males). We also adjusted for important covariates.

RESULTS

Metabolic syndrome parameters improved after bariatric surgery and worsened after severe obesity diagnosis (p < 0.05). The rate of polyps was 46.7% at a median of 0.5 years pre-BRS and 47.9% at a median of 0.6 years pre-SO diagnosis. The polyps rate was 45.4% at a median (range) of 3.2 (1.0-8.5) years post-BRS. Conversely, 53.8% of adults had polyps at 3.0 (1.0-8.6) years post-SO. There was no change in the risk of colorectal polyps in males or females post- vs. pre-BRS. However, the risk of polyps was higher in males (OR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.02-1.70) and females (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.13-1.47) post- vs. pre-SO. When compared to the control group (SO), the odds ratios for colorectal polyps were lower for males and females after bariatric surgery (OR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.44-0.90, and OR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.66-0.96, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of colorectal polyps, an effect that is ameliorated after bariatric surgery. These data are relevant for studies investigating colorectal carcinogenesis mechanisms.

Anal Carcinoma, Version 2.2023, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

This discussion summarizes the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines for managing squamous cell anal carcinoma, which represents the most common histologic form of the disease. A multidisciplinary approach including physicians from gastroenterology, medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and radiology is necessary. Primary treatment of perianal cancer and anal canal cancer are similar and include chemoradiation in most cases. Follow-up clinical evaluations are recommended for all patients with anal carcinoma because additional curative-intent treatment is possible. Biopsy-proven evidence of locally recurrent or persistent disease after primary treatment may require surgical treatment. Systemic therapy is generally recommended for extrapelvic metastatic disease. Recent updates to the NCCN Guidelines for Anal Carcinoma include staging classification updates based on the 9th edition of the AJCC Staging System and updates to the systemic therapy recommendations based on new data that better define optimal treatment of patients with metastatic anal carcinoma.

Dietary Oncopharmacognosy as a Crosswalk between Precision Oncology and Precision Nutrition

While diet and nutrition are modifiable risk factors for many chronic and infectious diseases, their role in cancer prevention and control remains under investigation. The lack of clarity of some diet-cancer relationships reflects the ongoing debate about the relative contribution of genetic factors, environmental exposures, and replicative errors in stem cell division as determinate drivers of cancer risk. In addition, dietary guidance has often been based upon research assuming that the effects of diet and nutrition on carcinogenesis would be uniform across populations and for various tumor types arising in a specific organ, i.e., that one size fits all. Herein, we present a paradigm for investigating precision dietary patterns that leverages the approaches that led to successful small-molecule inhibitors in cancer treatment, namely understanding the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of small molecules for targeting carcinogenic mechanisms. We challenge the scientific community to refine the paradigm presented and to conduct proof-in-concept experiments that integrate existing knowledge (drug development, natural products, and the food metabolome) with developments in artificial intelligence to design and then test dietary patterns predicted to elicit drug-like effects on target tissues for cancer prevention and control. We refer to this precision approach as dietary oncopharmacognosy and envision it as the crosswalk between the currently defined fields of precision oncology and precision nutrition with the goal of reducing cancer deaths.

The impact of surgical weight loss procedures on the risk of metachronous colorectal neoplasia: the differential effect of surgery type, sex, and anatomic location

Patients with prior colorectal polyps are at high risk for metachronous colorectal neoplasia, especially in the presence of obesity. We assessed the impact of 2 common bariatric surgeries, vertical sleeve gastrectomy and roux-n-Y gastric bypass, on the risk of colorectal neoplasia recurrence. This nationally representative analysis included 1183 postbariatric adults and 3193 propensity score-matched controls, who all had prior colonoscopy with polyps and polypectomy. Colorectal polyps reoccurred in 63.8% of bariatric surgery patients and 71.7% of controls at a mean follow-up of 53.1 months from prior colonoscopy. There was a reduced odds of colorectal polyp recurrence after bariatric surgery compared with controls (odds ratio [OR] = 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.58 to 0.83). This effect was most pronounced in men (OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.42 to 0.79), and post roux-n-Y gastric bypass (OR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.41 to 0.79). However, the risk of rectal polyps or colorectal cancer remained consistent between groups. This study is the first to our knowledge to show a reduction in risk of polyp recurrence following bariatric surgery.

Rising Rates of Severe Obesity in Adults Younger Than 50 Correspond to Rise in Hospitalizations for Non-malignant Gastrointestinal Disease

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer incidence is rising in adults < 50 years old, possibly due to obesity. Non-malignant colorectal conditions are understudied in this population. We hypothesize that developing severe obesity in young adulthood also corresponds with increased hospitalization rates for non-malignant colorectal conditions.

METHODS

We examined annual percent change (APC) in the prevalence of obesity in adults < 50 using the 2009-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Using the 2010-2014 Nationwide Readmission Database, we then compared yearly hospitalization trends for various gastrointestinal conditions and their outcomes in adults < 50 with severe obesity vs. no obesity.

RESULTS

The prevalence of obesity increased in adults < 50 years in 2009-2014. This increase was most pronounced for severe obesity (APC of + 12.8%). The rate of patients with severe obesity < 50 who were admitted for gastrointestinal diseases has increased by 7.76% per year in 2010-2014 (p < 0.001). This increase was > 10% per year for colorectal conditions such Clostridium difficile infections (APC + 17.3%, p = 0.002), inflammatory bowel disease (APC + 13.1%, p = 0.001), and diverticulitis (APC + 12.7%, p = 0.002). The hospitalization rate for chronic liver diseases and acute pancreatitis also increased by 12.2% and 10.0% per year, respectively (p < 0.01). In contrast, young adults without obesity had lower hospitalization rate for most gastrointestinal diseases. Furthermore, adults with no obesity had lower mortality rates for appendicitis, diverticulitis, pancreatitis and chronic liver diseases than adults with severe obesity.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that increased adiposity in young adults is associated with more hospitalization and worse outcomes for infectious/inflammatory gastrointestinal conditions. Future prevention strategies are warranted to ameliorate these trends.

Adjustable Intragastric Balloon Leads to Significant Improvement in Obesity-Related Lipidome and Fecal Microbiome Profiles: A Proof-of-Concept Study

INTRODUCTION

Intragastric balloons (IGBs) are a safe and effective treatment for obesity. However, limited knowledge exists on the underlying biological changes with IGB placement.

METHODS

This single-institution study was part of an adjustable IGB randomized controlled trial. Subjects with obesity were randomized in a 2 is to 1 ratio to 32 weeks of IGB with diet/exercise counseling (n = 8) vs counseling alone (controls, n = 4). Diet/exercise counseling was continued for 24 weeks post-IGB removal to assess weight maintenance. We used mass spectrometry for nontargeted plasma lipidomics analysis and 16S rRNA sequencing to profile the fecal microbiome.

RESULTS

Subjects with IGBs lost 15.5% of their body weight at 32 weeks vs 2.59% for controls (P < 0.05). Maintenance of a 10.5% weight loss occurred post-IGB explant. IGB placement, followed by weight maintenance, led to a -378.9 μM/L reduction in serum free fatty acids compared with pre-IGB (95% confidence interval: 612.9, -145.0). This reduction was mainly in saturated, mono, and omega-6 fatty acids when compared with pre-IGB. Polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholines also increased after IGB placement (difference of 27 μM/L; 95% confidence interval: 1.1, 52.8). Compared with controls, saturated and omega-6 free fatty acids (linoleic and arachidonic acids) were reduced after IGB placement. The fecal microbiota changed post-IGB placement and weight maintenance vs pre-IGB (P < 0.05). Further analysis showed a possible trend toward reduced Firmicutes and increased Bacteroidetes post-IGB and counseling, a change that was not conclusively different from counseling alone.

DISCUSSION

IGB treatment is associated with an altered fecal microbiome profile and may have a better effect on obesity-related lipidome than counseling alone.

Colorectal Cancer Risk Is Impacted by Sex and Type of Surgery After Bariatric Surgery

PURPOSE

Sex differences exist in the associations between obesity and the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, limited data exist on how sex affects CRC risk after bariatric surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study used the 2012-2020 MarketScan database. We employed a propensity-score-matched analysis and precise coding to define CRC in this nationwide US study. Adjusted hazards ratio (HR) assessed CRC risk ≥ 6 months. In a restricted analysis, logistic regression with adjusted odds ratios (OR) examined CRC risk ≥ 3 years.

RESULTS

Our sample included 327,734 controls with severe obesity and 88,630 patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (VSG). The odds of cessation of diabetes mellitus medications, a surrogate for diabetes remission, were higher post-surgery vs. controls, especially in RYGB and males. In females, CRC risk decreased post-RYGB compared to controls (HR = 0.40, 95%CI: 0.18-0.87, p = 0.02). However, VSG was not associated with lower CRC risk in females. Paradoxically, in males compared to controls, CRC risk trended toward an almost significant increase, especially after 3 years or more from surgery (OR = 2.18, 95%CI: 0.97-4.89, p = 0.06). Males had a higher risk of CRC, particularly rectosigmoid cancer, than females after bariatric surgery (HR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.35-5.38, p < 0.001). Furthermore, diabetes remission was not associated with a lower CRC risk post-surgery.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest an increased risk of CRC in males compared to females after bariatric surgery. Compared to controls, there was a decrease in CRC risk in females' post-RYGB but not VSG. Mechanistic studies are needed to explain these differences.

Utility of machine learning in developing a predictive model for early-age-onset colorectal neoplasia using electronic health records

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing in adults younger than 50, and early screening remains challenging due to cost and under-utilization. To identify individuals aged 35-50 years who may benefit from early screening, we developed a prediction model using machine learning and electronic health record (EHR)-derived factors.

METHODS

We enrolled 3,116 adults aged 35-50 at average-risk for CRC and underwent colonoscopy between 2017-2020 at a single center. Prediction outcomes were (1) CRC and (2) CRC or high-risk polyps. We derived our predictors from EHRs (e.g., demographics, obesity, laboratory values, medications, and zip code-derived factors). We constructed four machine learning-based models using a training set (random sample of 70% of participants): regularized discriminant analysis, random forest, neural network, and gradient boosting decision tree. In the testing set (remaining 30% of participants), we measured predictive performance by comparing C-statistics to a reference model (logistic regression).

RESULTS

The study sample was 55.1% female, 32.8% non-white, and included 16 (0.05%) CRC cases and 478 (15.3%) cases of CRC or high-risk polyps. All machine learning models predicted CRC with higher discriminative ability compared to the reference model [e.g., C-statistics (95%CI); neural network: 0.75 (0.48-1.00) vs. reference: 0.43 (0.18-0.67); P = 0.07] Furthermore, all machine learning approaches, except for gradient boosting, predicted CRC or high-risk polyps significantly better than the reference model [e.g., C-statistics (95%CI); regularized discriminant analysis: 0.64 (0.59-0.69) vs. reference: 0.55 (0.50-0.59); P<0.0015]. The most important predictive variables in the regularized discriminant analysis model for CRC or high-risk polyps were income per zip code, the colonoscopy indication, and body mass index quartiles.

DISCUSSION

Machine learning can predict CRC risk in adults aged 35-50 using EHR with improved discrimination. Further development of our model is needed, followed by validation in a primary-care setting, before clinical application.

Accuracy of virtual chromoendoscopy in differentiating gastric antral vascular ectasia from portal hypertensive gastropathy: A proof of concept study

BACKGROUND

Accurate detection of gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is critical for proper management of cirrhosis-related gastrointestinal bleeding. However, endoscopic diagnosis of GAVE can be challenging when GAVE overlaps with severe portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG).

AIM

To determine the added diagnostic value of virtual chromoendoscopy to high definition white light for real-time endoscopic diagnosis of GAVE and PHG.

METHODS

We developed an I-scan virtual chromoendoscopy criteria for diagnosis of GAVE and PHG. We tested our criteria in a cross-sectional cohort of cirrhotic adults with GAVE and PHG when high-definition white light endoscopy (HDWLE) diagnosis was in doubt. We then compared the accuracy of I-scan vs HDWLE alone to histology.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients were included in this study (65.2% Caucasians and 60.9% males). Chronic hepatitis C was the predominant cause of cirrhosis (43.5%) and seven adults (30.4%) had confirmed GAVE on histology. I-scan had higher sensitivity (100% vs 85.7%) and specificity (75% vs 62.5%) in diagnosing GAVE compared to HDWLE. This translates into a higher, albeit not statistically significant, accuracy of I-scan in detecting GAVE compared to HDWLE alone (82% vs 70%). I-scan was less likely to lead to an accurate diagnosis of GAVE in patients on dialysis (P < 0.05) and in patients with elevated creatinine (P < 0.05). I-scan had similar accuracy to HDWLE in detecting PHG.

CONCLUSION

This pilot work supports that virtual chromoendoscopy may obviate the need for biopsies when the presence of GAVE is in doubt. Larger studies are needed to assess the impact of virtual chromoendoscopy on success of endoscopic therapy for GAVE.

Adjustable intragastric balloon for treatment of obesity: a multicentre, open-label, randomised clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Intragastric balloons are anatomy-preserving, minimally invasive obesity therapies. Enhanced tolerance and durability could help broaden clinical adoption. We investigated the safety and efficacy of an adjustable intragastric balloon (aIGB) in adults with obesity.

METHODS

In this prospective, multicentre, open-label, randomised clinical trial done at seven US sites, adults aged 22-65 years with obesity were randomly assigned (2:1) to aIGB with lifestyle intervention or lifestyle intervention alone (control) for 32 weeks. Balloon volume could be increased to facilitate weight loss or decreased for tolerability. Coprimary endpoints included mean percentage total bodyweight loss and responder rate (≥5% total bodyweight loss) at 32 weeks. We used a multiple imputed intention-to-treat population analysis. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02812160.

FINDINGS

Between Aug 9, 2016, and Dec 7, 2018, we randomly assigned 288 patients to aIGB (n=187 [65%]) or control (n=101 [35%]) groups. Mean total bodyweight loss at 32 weeks was 15·0% (95% CI 13·9-16·1) in the aIGB group versus 3·3% (2·0-4·6) in the control group (p<0·0001). Clinical response was observed in 171 (92%) patients in the aIGB group. Adjustments to the aIGB occurred in 145 (80%) patients for weight loss plateau or intolerance. Upward volume adjustment facilitated an additional mean 5·2% (4·5-5·8) total bodyweight loss. Downward volume adjustment allowed 21 (75%) patients in the aIGB group to complete the full duration of therapy. Intolerance caused early removal of the device in 31 (17%) patients. No micronutrient deficiencies were observed in the aIGB cohort. Device-related serious adverse events were observed in seven (4%) patients, without any deaths.

INTERPRETATION

When aIGB was combined with lifestyle modification, significant weight loss was achieved and maintained for 6 months following removal. Balloon volume adjustability permitted individualised therapy, maximising weight loss and tolerance.

FUNDING

Spatz Medical.

Proinflammatory and Hyperinsulinemic Dietary Patterns Are Associated With Specific Profiles of Biomarkers Predictive of Chronic Inflammation, Glucose-Insulin Dysregulation, and Dyslipidemia in Postmenopausal Women

Background: Dietary patterns promoting hyperinsulinemia and chronic inflammation, including the empirical dietary index for hyperinsulinemia (EDIH) and empirical dietary inflammatory pattern (EDIP), have been shown to strongly influence risk of weight gain, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. EDIH was developed using plasma C-peptide, whereas EDIP was based on plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor 2 (TNF-αR2). We investigated whether these dietary patterns were associated with a broader range of relevant biomarkers not previously tested. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we included 35,360 women aged 50-79 years from the Women's Health Initiative with baseline (1993-1998) fasting blood samples. We calculated EDIH and EDIP scores from baseline food frequency questionnaire data and tested their associations with 40 circulating biomarkers of insulin response/insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system, chronic systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, lipids, and lipid particle size. Multivariable-adjusted linear regression was used to estimate the percent difference in biomarker concentrations per 1 standard deviation increment in dietary index. FDR-adjusted p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Empirical dietary index for hyperinsulinemia (EDIH) and empirical dietary inflammatory pattern (EDIP) were significantly associated with altered concentrations of 25 of the 40 biomarkers examined. For EDIH, the percent change in biomarker concentration in the insulin-related biomarkers ranged from +1.3% (glucose) to +8% (homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance) and -9.7% for IGF-binding protein-1. EDIH impacted inflammation and endothelial dysfunction biomarkers from +1.1% (TNF-αR2) to +7.8% (CRP) and reduced adiponectin by 2.4%; and for lipid biomarkers: +0.3% (total cholesterol) to +3% (triglycerides/total cholesterol ratio) while reducing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol by 2.4%. EDIP showed a similar trend of associations with most biomarkers, although the magnitude of association was slightly weaker for the insulin-related biomarkers and stronger for lipids and lipid particle size. Conclusions: Dietary patterns with high potential to contribute to insulin hypersecretion and to chronic systemic inflammation, based on higher EDIH and EDIP scores, were associated with an unfavorable profile of circulating biomarkers of glucose-insulin dysregulation, chronic systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and dyslipidemia. The broad range of biomarkers further validates EDIH and EDIP as mechanisms-based dietary patterns for use in clinical and population-based studies of metabolic and inflammatory diseases.

Apprising the choice of bariatric surgery in patients with compensated cirrhosis with morbid obesity: results of a national analysis

Bariatric surgery (BS) was proved safe in carefully selected patients with compensated cirrhosis (CC). However, limited data exist on differential impact of bariatric surgery type on clinical outcomes and health care utilization. This retrospective study utilizes the 2010-2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database. We included obese adults with CC who underwent the two most commonly used BS, Roux-en-Y (RYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Those with decompensation within 6 months of BS were excluded. Rates of hepatic decompensation (new-onset ascites, variceal bleed, encephalopathy, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and/or hepatorenal syndrome), surgical complications, health care utilization, and mortality were compared between RYGB and LSG. Multivariable analysis was performed to fit various models. A total of 3032 patients with CC underwent BS, including 1864 (61.5%) RYGB and 1168 (38.5%) LSG. The majority (56%) of BS were performed at large, metropolitan teaching hospitals. There were no significant differences in various decompensations and surgical complications comparing RYGB to LSG. Healthcare utilization including index length of stay (RYGB: 3.4 days vs LSG: 3.0 days), 30-day readmission rate (RYGB: 9.5% vs LSG: 3.7%), and cost of admission (RYGB: $14,006 vs LSG: $12,523) were higher in RYGB (p values < 0.001). Index admission and calendar year mortality could not be analyzed due to the few number of events. Two types of bariatric surgeries in obese patients with compensated cirrhosis have similar rates of decompensated cirrhosis events and surgical complications. However, RYGB procedure incurred increased healthcare utilization. Therefore, LSG may be the preferred BS for patients with CC. Prospective, randomized studies comparing the types of BS are needed to confirm our observations.

Hospital outcomes and early readmission for the most common gastrointestinal and liver diseases in the United States: Implications for healthcare delivery

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal (GI) and liver diseases contribute to substantial inpatient morbidity, mortality, and healthcare resource utilization. Finding ways to reduce the economic burden of healthcare costs and the impact of these diseases is of crucial importance. Thirty-day readmission rates and related hospital outcomes can serve as objective measures to assess the impact of and provide further insights into the most common GI ailments.

AIM

To identify the thirty-day readmission rates with related predictors and outcomes of hospitalization of the most common GI and liver diseases in the United States.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis of the 2012 National Inpatient Sample was performed to identify the 13 most common GI diseases. The 2013 Nationwide Readmission Database was then queried with specific International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes. Primary outcomes were mortality (index admission, calendar-year), hospitalization costs, and thirty-day readmission and secondary outcomes were predictors of thirty-day readmission.

RESULTS

For the year 2013, the thirteen most common GI diseases contributed to 2.4 million index hospitalizations accounting for about $25 billion. The thirty-day readmission rates were highest for chronic liver disease (25.4%), Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) infection (23.6%), functional/motility disorders (18.5%), inflammatory bowel disease (16.3%), and GI bleeding (15.5%). The highest index and subsequent calendar-year hospitalization mortality rates were chronic liver disease (6.1% and 12.6%), C. difficile infection (2.3% and 6.1%), and GI bleeding (2.2% and 5.0%), respectively. Thirty-day readmission correlated with any subsequent admission mortality (r = 0.798, P = 0.001). Medicare/Medicaid insurances, ≥ 3 Elixhauser comorbidities, and length of stay > 3 d were significantly associated with thirty-day readmission for all the thirteen GI diseases.

CONCLUSION

Preventable and non-chronic GI disease contributed to a significant economic and health burden comparable to chronic GI conditions, providing a window of opportunity for improving healthcare delivery in reducing its burden.

Predictors of hospital transfer and associated risks of mortality in acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

There is limited research in prognosticators of hospital transfer in acute pancreatitis (AP). Hence, we sought to determine the predictors of hospital transfer from small/medium-sized hospitals and outcomes following transfer to large acute-care hospitals.

METHODS

Using the 2010-2013 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS), patients ≥18 years of age with a primary diagnosis of AP were identified. Hospital size was classified using standard NIS Definitions. Multivariable analyses were performed for predictors of "transfer-out" from small/medium-sized hospitals and mortality in large acute-care hospitals.

RESULTS

Among 381,818 patients admitted with AP to small/medium-sized hospitals, 13,947 (4%) were transferred out to another acute-care hospital. Multivariable analysis revealed that older patients (OR = 1.04; 95%CI 1.03-1.06), men (OR = 1.15; 95%CI 1.06-1.24), lower income quartiles (OR = 1.54; 95%CI 1.35-1.76), admission to a non-teaching hospital (OR = 3.38; 95%CI 3.00-3.80), gallstone pancreatitis (OR = 3.32; 95%CI 2.90-3.79), pancreatic surgery (OR = 3.14; 95%CI 1.76-5.58), and severe AP (OR = 3.07; 95%CI 2.78-3.38) were predictors of "transfer-out". ERCP (OR = 0.53; 95%CI 0.43-0.66) and cholecystectomy (OR = 0.14; 95%CI 0.12-0.18) were associated with decreased odds of "transfer-out". Among 507,619 patients admitted with AP to large hospitals, 31,058 (6.1%) were "transferred-in" from other hospitals. The mortality rate for patients "transferred-in" was higher than those directly admitted (2.54% vs. 0.91%, p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis revealed that being "transferred-in" from other hospitals was an independent predictor of mortality (OR = 1.47; 95% CI 1.22-1.77).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with AP transferred into large acute-care hospitals had a higher mortality than those directly admitted likely secondary to more severe disease. Early implementation of published clinical guidelines, triage, and prompt transfer of high-risk patients may potentially offset these negative outcomes.

Class III obesity rather than metabolic syndrome impacts clinical outcomes of acute pancreatitis: A propensity score weighted analysis

OBJECTIVES

The incidence rates of acute pancreatitis (AP) and the prevalence of class III obesity, and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are increasing in the US. Since class III obesity was associated with adverse clinical outcomes of AP, we sought to understand if the presence of metabolic comorbidities collectively recognized, as MetS were associated with worse clinical outcomes and increased health-care utilization.

METHODS

The Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) (2010-2014) was reviewed to identify all adult subjects with a principal discharge diagnosis of AP. Inpatient mortality, severe AP (SAP), and 30-day readmissions were the primary outcomes analyzed. Propensity score weighted analyses were used to compare AP subjects with and without MetS and were further stratified by class III obesity status.

RESULTS

MetS was associated with 12.91% (139,165/1,078,183) of all admissions with AP. Propensity score weighted analyses showed that MetS was associated with an increased proportion of SAP (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.17, 1.25), but decreased mortality (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.54, 0.70) and 30-day readmissions (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.83, 0.89). Propensity score weighted analyses also revealed that class III obesity was independently associated with increased mortality in AP subjects with (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.41, 2.61) and without MetS (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.26, 1.92), and increased SAP in subjects with and without MetS.

CONCLUSIONS

Class III obesity appears to be the primary factor associated with adverse clinical outcomes in subjects with MetS admitted with AP. This has significant implications for patient management and future research targeting AP.

Bariatric Surgery Is Associated with a Recent Temporal Increase in Colorectal Cancer Resections, Most Pronounced in Adults Below 50 Years of Age

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer incidence is rising in adults < 50 years old, possibly due to obesity. Having bariatric surgery (BRS) should hypothetically reduce this trend, but data are limited. This study compared trends of colorectal cancer (CRC) versus other obesity-related gastrointestinal cancers (OGCs) between morbidly obese and post-BRS subjects.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study investigated OGC resection trends using the 2006-2013 National Inpatient Sample. Patients with prior BRS and non-BRS controls with body mass index ≥ 40 kg/m² were included (n = 30,279 total). We divided OGCs into CRC and non-CRC OGCs (esophageal, stomach, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas). We calculated OGC resection trends in patients < 50 and ≥ 50 years old using the average annual percent change (AAPC).

RESULTS

BRS patients with OGCs were younger (59.3 vs 62.3 years old), with more female gender (77.4% vs 57.1%) and White race (72.6% vs 67%) compared with controls (p < 0.05). The number of CRC resections increased across all ages in 2006-2013, especially rectal cancer for BRS patients (AAPC + 19.8%, p = 0.04). The steepest rise in early-onset CRC resections was after BRS versus a lesser increase in morbid obesity controls (AAPC + 18.7% and + 13.7%, respectively, p < 0.001). In contrast, non-CRC OGCs increased in our controls but not post-BRS. In a sensitivity analysis, estimated CRC incidence trends also increased post-BRS despite adjusting for increasing BRS prevalence.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that bariatric surgery is associated with a persistent increase in early-onset CRC trends. Studies are warranted to validate our results and test the impact of bariatric surgery on early-onset CRC biological mechanisms.

Fusobacterium's link to colorectal neoplasia sequenced: A systematic review and future insights

AIM

To critically evaluate previous scientific evidence on Fusobacterium's role in colorectal neoplasia development.

METHODS

Two independent investigators systematically reviewed all original scientific articles published between January, 2000, and July, 2017, using PubMed, EMBASE, and MEDLINE. A total of 355 articles were screened at the abstract level. Of these, only original scientific human, animal, and in vitro studies investigating Fusobacterium and its relationship with colorectal cancer (CRC) were included in the analysis. Abstracts, review articles, studies investigating other colonic diseases, and studies written in other languages than English were excluded from our analysis. Ninety articles were included after removing duplicates, resolving disagreements between the two reviewers, and applying the above criteria.

RESULTS

Studies have consistently identified positive associations between Fusobacterium, especially Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), and CRC. Stronger associations were seen in CRCs proximal to the splenic flexure and CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP)-high CRCs. There was evidence of temporality and a biological gradient, with increased F. nucleatum DNA detection and quantity along the traditional adenoma-carcinoma sequence and in CIMP-high CRC precursors. Diet may have a differential impact on colonic F. nucleatum enrichment; evidence suggests that high fiber diet may reduce the risk of a subset of CRCs that are F. nucleatum DNA-positive. Data also suggest shorter CRC and disease-specific survival with increased amount of F. nucleatum DNA in CRC tissue. The pathophysiology of enrichment of F. nucleatum and other Fusobacterium species in colonic tissue is unclear; however, the virulence factors and changes to the local colonic environment with disruption of the protective mucus layer may contribute. The presence of a host lectin (Gal-GalNAc) in the colonic epithelium may also mediate F. nucleatum attachment to CRC and precursors through interaction with an F. nucleatum protein, fibroblast activation protein 2 (FAP2). The clinical significance of detection or enrichment of Fusobacterium in colorectal neoplasia is ambiguous, but data suggest a procarcinogenic effect of F. nucleatum, likely due to activation of oncogenic and inflammatory pathways and modulation of the tumor immune environment. This is hypothesized to be mediated by certain F. nucleatum strains carrying invasive properties and virulence factors such as FadA and FAP.

CONCLUSION

Evidence suggests a potential active role of Fusobacterium, specifically F. nucleatum, in CRC. Future prospective and experimental human studies would fill an important gap in this literature.

Cirrhosis Is Associated with Increased Mortality in Patients with Diverticulitis: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Diverticulitis in patients with cirrhosis has been associated with higher surgical mortality, but no prior studies evaluate non-surgical treatment results.

AIMS

Our aim was to compare the outcomes of hospitalization for diverticulitis in patients with and without cirrhosis.

METHODS

We utilized the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2007-2013) for patients with and without cirrhosis hospitalized for diverticulitis. Patients were further stratified by the presence of compensated versus decompensated cirrhosis. Validated ICD-9 codes captured patients and surgical procedures. Multivariate logistic regression models were fit. The primary outcomes of interest were mortality and surgical intervention rates.

RESULTS

There were 1,555,469 patients hospitalized for diverticulitis without cirrhosis, and 7523 patients hospitalized for diverticulitis with cirrhosis. On multivariate analysis, patients with cirrhosis had an increased mortality rate (OR 2.28; 95% CI 1.48-3.5). There were no significant differences in surgical interventions. Subgroup multivariate analyses of compensated cirrhosis (n = 6170) and decompensated cirrhosis (n = 1353) revealed that decompensated cirrhosis had an increased mortality rate (OR 4.99; 95% CI 2.48-10.03) when compared to patients without cirrhosis, whereas those with compensated cirrhosis did not (OR 1.67; 95% CI 0.96-2.91). Those with compensated cirrhosis underwent less surgical interventions (OR 0.82; 95% CI 0.67-0.99) compared to those without cirrhosis. Patients with diverticulitis and cirrhosis had increased costs and lengths of hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

Presence of cirrhosis in patients hospitalized for diverticulitis is associated with an increased mortality rate. These are novel findings, and future clinical studies should focus on improving diverticulitis outcomes in this group.

A review of the impact of obesity on common gastrointestinal malignancies

Obesity is a global pandemic and is a well-recognized risk factor for various gastrointestinal diseases. The prevalence of obesity is increasing across all age groups. There is an emergent need for focused guidelines aimed at reducing the incidence, prevalence, and associated risks of obesity. The impact of obesity on gastrointestinal cancers being multifactorial adversely influences the associated risk, disease course, prognosis, and overall survival. We have summarized the current literature highlighting the association between obesity and common gastrointestinal cancers, with specific focus on esophageal adenocarcinoma, colon cancer, hepatocellular cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, and pancreatic malignancies.

The Burden of Systemic Adiposity on Pancreatic Disease: Acute Pancreatitis, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Pancreas Disease, and Pancreatic Cancer

Obesity is a global epidemic as recognized by the World Health Organization. Obesity and its related comorbid conditions were recognized to have an important role in a multitude of acute, chronic, and critical illnesses including acute pancreatitis, nonalcoholic fatty pancreas disease, and pancreatic cancer. This review summarizes the impact of adiposity on a spectrum of pancreatic diseases.

Morbid Obesity is Associated with Increased Mortality, Surgical Complications, and Incremental Health Care Utilization in the Peri-Operative Period of Colorectal Cancer Surgery

BACKGROUND

Morbid obesity (Basic Mass Index ≥ 40 kg/m(2)) leads to increased long-term mortality after colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery. Little is known about its effects on peri-operative CRC surgery outcomes.

METHODS

85,300 discharges for CRC surgery were identified using the redesigned 2012 National Inpatient Sample. Outcomes of interest were mortality, healthcare charges, and surgical outcomes in morbidly obese patients which were compared to those in nonobese patients.

RESULTS

There were 4385 (5.14%) morbidly obese patients who underwent CRC surgery during the study period. Morbid obesity was associated with younger age, females, and African Americans in our study (p < 0.05). Morbidly obese patients had higher prevalence of CRC peri-operative co-morbidities, surgical complications, and conversions from laparoscopic to open surgery. On multivariate analysis, morbid obesity led to an increased CRC surgery peri-operative mortality (OR 1.85, 95 % CI 1.15, 2.97). Mortality remained significant even after adjusting for surgical complications (OR 1.79, 95 % CI 1.12, 2.88). Morbidly obese patients undergoing CRC also had a prolonged length of hospitalization (1.22 day, 95 % CI 0.67, 1.78), a $15,582 increase in total hospital charges (95 % CI 8419, 22,745), and increased disposition to short-term rehabilitation facilities (OR 2.25, 95 % CI 1.79, 2.84).

CONCLUSION

Analysis of national level data demonstrates that morbidly obese patients have an increased CRC surgery peri-operative mortality with higher prevalence of co-morbidities, surgical complications, and more health care resource utilization. Future research efforts should concentrate on ameliorating these outcomes in morbidly obese patients.

Morbid Obesity Is Associated With Adverse Clinical Outcomes in Acute Pancreatitis: A Propensity-Matched Study

OBJECTIVES

Morbid obesity may adversely affect the clinical course of acute pancreatitis (AP); however, there are no inpatient, population-based studies assessing the impact of morbid obesity on AP-related outcomes. We sought to evaluate the impact of morbid obesity on AP-related clinical outcomes and health-care utilization.

METHODS

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2007-2011) was reviewed to identify all adult inpatients (≥18 years) with a principal diagnosis of AP. The primary clinical outcomes (mortality, renal failure, and respiratory failure) and secondary resource outcomes (length of stay and hospital charges) were analyzed using univariate and multivariate comparisons. Propensity score-matched analysis was performed to compare the outcomes in patients with and without morbid obesity.

RESULTS

Morbid obesity was associated with 3.9% (52,297/1,330,302) of all AP admissions. Whereas the mortality rate decreased overall (0.97%→0.83%, P<0.001), it remained unchanged in those with morbid obesity (1.02%→1.07%, P=1.0). Multivariate analysis revealed that morbid obesity was associated with increased mortality (odds ratio (OR) 1.6; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3, 1.9), prolonged hospitalization (0.4 days; P<0.001), and higher hospitalization charges ($5,067; P<0.001). A propensity score-matched cohort analysis demonstrated that the primary outcomes, acute kidney failure (10.8 vs. 8.2%; P<0.001), respiratory failure (7.9 vs. 6.4%; P<0.001), and mortality (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2, 2.1) were more frequent in morbid obesity.

CONCLUSIONS

Morbid obesity negatively influences inpatient hospitalization and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes, including mortality, organ failure, and health-care resource utilization. These observations and the increasing global prevalence of obesity justify ongoing efforts to understand the role of obesity-induced inflammation in the pathogenesis and management of AP.

Diverticulitis in HIV-infected patients within the United States

OBJECTIVES

Diverticulitis in patients on immunosuppressant therapy has been associated with increased mortality, but there are no data for HIV-infected patients. Our aim was to compare the outcomes of hospitalizations for diverticulitis in patients with and without HIV infection.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study of hospitalizations in the United States accessed through the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project. Patients hospitalized for diverticulitis in 2007-2011 were included in the analysis. The primary outcomes of interest were mortality and surgical therapy rates. Patients from 2003 to 2011 were utilized to analyse trends in prevalence.

RESULTS

There were 2375 patients with HIV infection hospitalized for diverticulitis and 1 160 391 patients without HIV infection hospitalized for diverticulitis from 2007 to 2011. The patients with HIV infection were younger and more likely to be male and nonwhite (P < 0.001 for all). There were also differences in insurance types (P < 0.001) and hospitals [size (P = 0.008), type (P < 0.001) and location (P < 0.001)]. After multivariate analysis, patients with diverticulitis and HIV infection had a significantly increased in-hospital mortality rate [odds ratio (OR) 3.94 (95% confidence interval, CI, 1.52-10.20)] and a lower rate of surgical intervention [OR 0.74 (95% CI 0.57-0.95)]. From 2003 to 2011, there was a linear increasing trend in the prevalence of HIV infection among patients hospitalized for diverticulitis (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

HIV-infected patients with diverticulitis had increased mortality and received less surgical treatment in comparison to the general population. Diverticulitis in HIV-infected patients increased in prevalence over the study period.

Predictors of double balloon endoscopy outcomes in the evaluation of gastrointestinal bleeding

AIM: To identify patients’ characteristics associated with double balloon endoscopy (DBE) outcomes in investigation of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB).

METHODS: Retrospective study performed at an academic tertiary referral center. Evaluated endpoints were clinical factors associated with no diagnostic yield or non-therapeutic intervention of DBE performed for OGIB evaluation.

RESULTS: We included fifty-five DBE between August 2010 and April 2012. The mean age of the sample was 67 with 32 males (58.2%). Twenty-four DBE had no diagnostic yield and 30 DBE did not require therapy. Non-diagnostic yield was associated with performing two or more DBE studies in one day [odds ratio (OR): 13.72, P = 0.008], absence of blood transfusions within a year of the DBE (OR: 7.16, P = 0.03) and absence of ulcers or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) on prior esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or colonoscopy (OR: 19.30, P = 0.033). Non-therapeutic DBE was associated with performing two or more DBE per day (OR: 18.579, P = 0.007), gastrointestinal bleeding episode within a week of the DBE (OR: 11.48, P = 0.003), fewer blood transfusion requirements prior to DBE (OR: 4.55, P = 0.036) and absence of ulcers or AVMs on prior EGD or colonoscopy (OR: 8.47, P = 0.027).

CONCLUSION: Predictors of DBE yield and therapeutic intervention on DBE include blood transfusion requirements, previous endoscopic findings and possibly endoscopist fatigue.