Dean and Steve spoke to Kylie Baxter live on ABC Radio for World Digestive Health Day 2025Dr Dean Al-Hajjiri, Consultant Gastroenterologist at the Hobart Private Hospital, Calvary & Royal Hobart Hospital; Honorary lecturer, University of Tasmania

Dr Steve Chung, Consultant Gastroenterologist at the Hobart Private Hospital

Series curated & organised by Dr Lila Landowski

Keywords: digestive health, colonoscopy, gastrointestinal health, bowel cancer, gut health, colon health, endoscopy, bowel preparation, reflux, diverticulitis

Summary

In this conversation, gastroenterologists Dr. Dean Al-Hajiri and Dr. Stephen Chung discuss the significance of digestive health, focusing on colonoscopies, their preparation, and common gastrointestinal issues. They explain the procedure, its importance in detecting potential health problems, and address common concerns about pain and preparation. The discussion also touches on dietary factors affecting gut health and humorous anecdotes from their experiences in the field.

Takeaways

World Digestive Health Day emphasizes the importance of digestive health.

A colonoscopy is a procedure to examine the large intestine.

Preparation for a colonoscopy is crucial for accurate results.

Colonoscopy can detect and treat issues like polyps and cancer.

Screening can significantly reduce the risk of dying from bowel cancer.

Coffee consumption has health benefits when kept to moderate levels.

Reflux is common but can indicate serious health issues if persistent.

Colonics lack evidence of benefit and can pose risks.

Bowel blockages can be caused by scar tissue or cancer.

Gastroenterologists play a key role in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal cancers.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Digestive Health and Colonoscopies

04:42 The Importance of Colonoscopy Preparation

08:59 Common Gastrointestinal Issues and Their Treatments

13:00 Unusual Findings During Colonoscopies