Gastroenterology (GI) is a branch of medicine and therapeutic area that is focused on the digestive system and its disorders. In clinical research, contract research organizations (CROs) may offer services for GI, or the therapeutic area may be a part of a greater branch of medicine known as Internal Medicine. GI specialists, known as Gastroenterologists, diagnose and treat conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract), including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. They perform procedures such as endoscopies, colonoscopies, and biopsies to diagnose diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and liver cirrhosis.
Key Areas of Gastroenterology:
- Diagnostic Procedures: Endoscopy, colonoscopy, and imaging studies to diagnose digestive disorders.
- Treatment and Management: Medications, dietary recommendations, and surgical interventions for conditions like ulcers, IBS, Crohn’s disease, and liver disease.
- Preventive Care: Screening for colorectal cancer and managing risk factors for digestive diseases.
- Research: Conducting clinical research to develop new treatments and improve understanding of gastrointestinal diseases.