American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Our Mission

Since its founding in 1941, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) has been dedicated to advancing patient care and digestive health by promoting excellence in gastrointestinal endoscopy. ASGE, with nearly 12,000 members worldwide, promotes the highest standards for endoscopic training and practice, fosters endoscopic research, recognizes distinguished contributions to endoscopy, and is the foremost resource for endoscopic education.

ASGE physicians have highly specialized training in endoscopic procedures of the digestive tract, including upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). ASGE is the only medical society that requires documentation of specific training in GI endoscopic procedures.

The society serves the medical profession and the general public by providing education and information, and by developing and advocating responsible positions for the benefit of patients, the public and medical professionals.

The ASGE provides a full range of educational courses, a peer-reviewed research journal (GIE: Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) and other publications, an annual scientific meeting (Digestive Disease Week), and a members-only and public education website (www.asge.org). ASGE also has a colon cancer awareness website (www.screen4coloncancer.org)

Activity

Joseph Dwyer is now following American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
On Feb 26
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

How can untreated reflux disease cause complications?

Complications of acid reflux can include dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), regurgitation and an... Full Post

On Feb 14
Marianne Wait is now following American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
On Jan 11
Michael Frist, MD is now following American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
On Nov 13
Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates is now following American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
On Nov 12
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

What are risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when there is an imbalance between the normal defense mechanisms of the esophagus and offensive factors such as acid and other digestive juices and enzymes in the stomach. Often, the barrier between the stomach and the esophagus is impaired by weakening... Full Post

On May 08, 2012
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

What are the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Common symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are heartburn and/or acid regurgitation. Heartburn is a burning sensation felt behind the breast bone that occurs when stomach contents irritate the normal lining of the esophagus. Acid regurgitation is the sensation of stomach... Full Post

On Apr 27, 2012
David A. Greenwald of American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

Should I be worried about blood in my stool?

Blood in the stool may be caused by benign (noncancerous) diseases such as hemorrhoids or inflammation in the lining of the colon. However, it might also indicate a more serious condition such as colorectal cancer. Blood in the stool should always be reported to a physician, who can help... Full Post

On Mar 19, 2012
Grace H. Elta of American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

What are some of the early warning signs of colon problems?

Colorectal cancer is often present in people without symptoms, making prevention and screening for colorectal cancer very important. A polyp may be found and removed even before it becomes cancerous or presents with symptoms; once symptoms appear, a colonoscopy is performed to aid in diagnosis,... Full Post

On Mar 19, 2012
David A. Greenwald of American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

What is the affect of body-mass index on cancer?

There is increasing evidence that obesity is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. A diet made up mostly of foods that are high in fat, especially from animal sources, can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Eating a varied diet, choosing most foods from plant sources and... Full Post

On Mar 19, 2012
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

What foods help prevent colon cancer?

Studies have shown a slight increased risk of developing colorectal cancer among individuals with higher red meat or non-dairy (meat-associated) fat intake.

Studies have also shown that getting an adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D in the diet or from supplements can reduce the risk... Full Post

On Mar 19, 2012
David A. Greenwald of American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

How does exercise reduce the risk of colon cancer?

People who are not active have a higher risk of colorectal cancer. Engaging in at least moderate activity for 30 minutes or more on five or more days per week will reduce colon cancer risk.

Although few studies have been able to show definitively that modifying lifestyle reduces the risk... Full Post

On Mar 19, 2012
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

Should I have genetic testing for colorectal cancer?

There are two well recognized hereditary syndromes in which cancer can develop in young people. The first is Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). This is a disease in which there is a mutation of a tumor suppressor gene and affected people develop hundreds to thousands of precancerous polyps... Full Post

On Mar 19, 2012
Grace H. Elta of American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

What does my poop say about my colon health?

Bowel health is reflected by stool (poop). When there is colon inflammation, the stool may be diarrhea (loose or watery and more frequent). There are several common causes of inflammation in the colon including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, bacterial infections, and poor blood flow to the co
... Full Post

On Mar 14, 2012
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy answered:

Are young people at risk for colorectal cancer?

There are two well recognized hereditary syndromes in which cancer can develop in young people. The first is Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). This is a disease in which there is a mutation of a tumor suppressor gene and affected people develop hundreds to thousands of precancerous polyps... Full Post

On Feb 28, 2012