Researchers at the Medical Faculty of the University of Augsburg have demonstrated a connection between chronic inflammatory autoimmune diseases and tumors in the digestive tract in a comprehensive study. The results were published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, which is part of the renowned Lancet group.

The study is based on data from over 1.5 million patients from 47 studies and analyzes the association between four autoimmune diseases – celiac disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis – and cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and pancreas. The results show that celiac disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, and type 1 diabetes increase the risk of certain cancers, especially stomach and colorectal cancer. Particularly striking is a factor of 4.2 increased risk of small bowel cancer in celiac disease.

In contrast, multiple sclerosis was found to have a lower risk of cancers such as pancreatic, esophageal and rectal cancer. The study emphasizes the role of chronic inflammation as a potential driver of cancer development and highlights the need for targeted screening programs for patients with autoimmune diseases.

The researchers call for closer monitoring of affected patients and the development of personalized cancer screening strategies. They also see a need for further research into the underlying mechanisms, in particular the effects of immunotherapies. The results provide important approaches for clinical practice and could significantly advance the development of preventive measures.

Original Paper:

Evaluating the risk of digestive system cancer in autoimmune disease patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis focusing on bias assessment – eClinicalMedicine

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

Gender Notice. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple naming and gendered designations are used for better readability. ected.