Salem Gastro Welcomes Gastroenterologist Dr. Charles Du
We’re excited to welcome Dr. Charles Du, a Harvard- and University of Chicago–trained gastroenterologist, to Salem Gastro. With advanced training in complex GI conditions and a commitment to personalized, community-based care, Dr. Du brings both expertise and heart to our growing team.
Academic Foundation, Community Focus
Dr. Du earned his undergraduate degree from Harvard College, where he graduated summa cum laude in Chemistry with a minor in Statistics. He earned his medical degree at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, completed his Internal Medicine Residency at Mount Sinai in New York, and most recently completed his Gastroenterology Fellowship at Cook County Health in Chicago.
His research has focused on fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and his clinical training spans both large academic medical centers and community hospitals.
“Taking a large polyp out of a patient’s colon before it turns cancerous might be the easiest way to save someone’s life,” says Dr. Du. “Whether I’m helping someone with IBD return to thriving health, or restoring their ability to eat and drink after a dilation procedure, it’s incredibly rewarding to see patients get their lives back.”
Clinical Interests
Dr. Du’s areas of expertise include:
• Colon cancer prevention
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Cirrhosis
• Esophageal manometry
• Achalasia dilation
• Ambulatory pH monitoring for GERD
• Esophageal stricture dilation
• ERCP
A Thoughtful, Individualized Approach
Dr. Du believes that great care starts with great communication:
“My job is to make sure patients feel informed and empowered. Some conditions have a clear treatment path, while others involve trade-offs and personal preferences. Either way, we make decisions together.”
He also appreciates Salem Gastro’s infrastructure and team approach:
“I joined Salem Gastro because this practice delivers the kind of care I’d want for my own family—efficient, evidence-based, and personal.”
Common Questions Dr. Du Helps Patients Navigate
Q: Why not just use Cologuard for colon cancer screening?
Stool-based tests like Cologuard can detect cancer, but they often miss precancerous polyps. Colonoscopy is still the gold standard because it allows us to find and remove polyps before they turn into cancer.
Q: What causes bloating, and can it be fixed?
Bloating often stems from constipation or difficulty digesting certain foods. A temporary low-FODMAP diet can help identify triggers—but long-term plans should be personalized.
Q: Can diet help manage my Crohn’s or colitis?
Diet plays a role in IBD risk, but once you have Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, medication is usually needed. That said, minimizing processed foods and eating fiber—unless you have a narrowing—can still support your overall health.
What Patients Say About Dr. Du
“You listened to my concerns and explained everything with clarity and patience. I felt seen, and that made all the difference.” – Sheryl Y.
“I lost 30 pounds before my achalasia diagnosis. After Dr. Du’s balloon dilation procedure, I’ve regained 19 pounds and can eat again without fear. I’m deeply grateful.” – Lynn D.
Outside the Clinic
Dr. Du and his wife enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors and are excited to raise their daughter in the Pacific Northwest.
Now Accepting New Patients
📞 Call 503.399.7520 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Du.
