• We continue to explore the gastrointestinal hazards of common over the counter pain relievers and ways to mitigate their effect on the stomach;
• We’ll undertake a national survey of gastroenterologists to explore their attitude and practice of sedation techniques during GI procedures;
• We'll contribute to the genetic understanding of ulcers and their healing process; and
• We’ll continue to partner with professional societies and digestive disease organizations to further the diagnosis and treatment for digestive diseases.

For the past year, and again in 2009-2010, DDRF has provided a one-year grant to a third-year medical student to work with Dr. Charles Lightdale, Professor of Clinical Medicine at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.

World renowned, Dr. Lightdale is doing ground-breaking work on Barrett’s Esophagus, a condition where cells lining the lower esophagus become pre-cancerous because of repeated exposure to stomach acid. Early detection of this abnormal cell growth using new biomarkers may improve the treatment and prevention of esophageal cancer.

•In addition to providing a year long grant to a medical student working with DDRF physicians, DDRF will also provide a year long grant to a third year medical student doing clinical research in digestive diseases in the NYC area;
•DDRF will continues to provide part-time clinical research internships to post baccalaureate students interested in careers in medicine;
•DDRF continues to support the presentation of clinical research findings to the major international gastrointestinal societies.