The Kirklin Clinic was full of energy yesterday morning for UAB Employee Wellness' annual Colon on the Corner event which raised awareness for colorectal cancer. Staff from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology handed out UAB swag, discussed the importance of colon screenings, and served free coffee. The O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, Viva Health, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Alabama, and Cologuard were also in attendance. Cheers to UAB Employee Wellness for another successful year of Colon on the Corner!

L to R: Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology staff Katie Green, Rachel Morris, RN, Megan Hemphill, Kennard Craig, Artemise Rue-Johnson, Jacalyn Witherspoon

Good News for March 7, 2025

New Leadership Accelerates Clinical Trials Growth

The Heersink School of Medicine appointed Dana Rizk, M.D., associate dean for Clinical Trials, and Cynthia Joiner, Ph.D., MPH, RN, assistant dean for Clinical Research Operations, effective March 1. They will work closely with Senior Associate Dean for Clinical and Translational Research, Orlando Gutiérrez, M.D., to lead the school's efforts in advancing clinical trials.

Team Discovers Contributor to Crohn's Disease Inflammation

Lesley Smythies, Ph.D., professor emeritus of gastroenterology and hepatology, and colleagues have discovered that human intestinal stromal cells in the gut produce less retinoic acid in patients with Crohn’s disease, leading to overactive immune responses and chronic inflammation. This study uncovers a previously unrecognized contributor to Crohn’s disease inflammation.

ID Studies How Testosterone Therapy Affects Transgender Men

In a recent study, Infectious Diseases faculty Drs. Olivia Van Gerwen, Christina Muzny, and Nicholas Van Wagoner found that testosterone therapy used in gender-affirming care for transgender men altered vaginal microbiota—bacteria and other microbes essential for vaginal health—in most participants. The finding highlights potential sexual health concerns in this population.

DOM Celebrates 41st Annual TRS

On Wednesday, the DOM celebrated its 41st annual Trainee Research Symposium. Staff scientists, undergrads, graduate students, residents, fellows, and postdoctoral scholars presented diverse research during the poster session, showcasing innovative investigations across disciplines. Congratulations to all of the participants for their achievements! And thanks to all the judges for evaluating this exciting work.

🎉 Happy Employee Appreciation Day 🎉

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to each of you for your hard work, dedication, and the care you bring to the Department of Medicine. Your contributions make a difference, and we are incredibly thankful for all that you do. If wellness were a formula, you’d be the perfect equation: ☕️ + 🧘 + 🏃‍♀️ + ☺️ = 🌟 Happier, Healthier DOM Teams! Because of you, we breathe a little easier, work a little better, and smile a lot more. Today, we encourage you to take a deep breath, celebrate yourself, and know that we appreciate every effort you make to create a thriving, supportive space for our community. Remember, you’re not just valued for your work, but for who you are. Take the time to care for yourselves and prioritize your well-being—you deserve it! With sincere appreciation, The Department of Medicine Wellness Council