An innovative, non-invasive breath test that can detect the source of many gastrointestinal symptoms in adults is now available from the University Medicine Patient Center at 375 Wampanoag Trail in East Providence.

University Medicines Division of Gastroenterology offers the Breath ID, one of the most innovative urea breath tests for diagnosing the H. pylori infection and for post-treatment monitoring of the infection in adults. H. pylori is a bacteria known to cause gastritis, ulcers, stomach cancer and other serious diseases.

Clinically proven to be highly accurate, the Breath ID test is safe and simple to use. The test takes just 20 minutes to administer in the physicians office. Patients are fitted with a nasal cannula (a lightweight, flexible breathing tube), which allows for normal breathing throughout the duration of the test. The Breath ID offers immediate diagnostic results right in the office.

Dr. Steven Moss, a professor of medicine at The Warren Alpert School of Medicine who is with UMs Division of Gastroenterology, recommends the Breath ID test for individuals with specific health conditions. The Breath ID test is a simple, yet effective way for patients with a history of stomach problems to prevent serious gastrointestinal conditions from arising in the future. I particularly recommend anyone under the age of 55 who has upper abdominal symptoms, or who has a history of peptic ulcers to consider this non-invasive, quick and easy test, says Dr. Moss.

UMs Division of Gastroenterology offers care to patients with a variety of digestive conditions with specialists certified in both Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. The division is located in the newly built Patient Center, which is home to seven other University Medicine practices, and puts an emphasis on care centered around the patients needs. To schedule an appointment or to find out more information about the H. pylori Breath ID test call 649-4030, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.