Precision endoscopy in the era of climate change and sustainability
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2024
Abstract
Global warming caused by increased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions has a direct impact on human health. Gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy contributes significantly to GHG emissions due to energy consumption, reprocessing of endoscopes and accessories, production of equipment, safe disposal of biohazardous waste, and travel by patients. Moreover, GHGs are also generated in histopathology through tissue processing and the production of biopsy specimen bottles. The reduction in unnecessary surveillance endoscopies and biopsies is a practical approach to decrease GHG emissions without affecting disease outcomes. This narrative review explores the role of precision medicine in GI endoscopy, such as image-enhanced endoscopy and artificial intelligence, with a focus on decreasing unnecessary endoscopic procedures and biopsies in the surveillance and diagnosis of premalignant lesions in the esophagus, stomach, and colon. This review offers strategies to minimize unnecessary endoscopic procedures and biopsies, decrease GHG emissions, and maintain high-quality patient care, thereby contributing to sustainable healthcare practices.
Keywords
Biopsy, Colonic neoplasm, Endoscopy, Esophageal neoplasm, Gastric neoplasm, Gastrointestinal
Divisions
medicinedept
Publication Title
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Australia)
Volume
39
Issue
1
Publisher
John Wiley and Sons Inc
Publisher Location
111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ USA