Barretts Oesophagus And The Risk Of Cancer
Those who have frequent heartburn can develop gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) which is the chronic regurgitation of stomach acid into the lower esophagus. Furthermore, those who feel long-term affects of GERD are at a greater risk of developing another condition known as Barrett’s esophagus. Barrett’s oesophagus occurs when the color and composition of the cells that line the lower oesophagus change due to the constant exposure to stomach acid.
Although Barrett’s oesophagus is uncommon, as only a very small percentage of people who have GERD develop the condition, those who are diagnosed with Barrett’s oesophagus are at a higher risk of developing oesophageal cancer.
This form of cancer is very serious as it usually spreads from the oesophagus to the lymph nodes and other organs. However, just as it is very rare for someone with GERD to develop Barrett’s oesophagus, it is also extremely rare for a person to develop oesophageal cancer from Barrett’s. In fact, it is estimated that less than 1% of people with Barrett’s are infected with oesophageal cancer.
Signs and symptoms to watch for
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