Acid reflux, Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

New studies show a link between acid reflux and esophageal cancer and reveal a genetic influence.
Esophageal cancer is on the increase and many researchers are looking at the underlying factors. A team at the Mayo Clinic looked at 186 cases of esophageal and stomach cancer and found a link with acid reflux disease. Around five per cent of those with acid reflux will go on to develop Barrett's esophagus, a condition in which there are changes in the esophagus lining. Once someone has Barrett's esophagus, their risk of cancer is greatly increased.

Meanwhile, another study by one of the Mayo researchers, Yvonne Romero, reveals that there are susceptibility genes on one of the chromosomes in families affected by Barrett's esophagus, with or without esophageal cancer. She will now continue these studies with another group of families and the hope is that a blood test for Barrett's esophagus can be developed. Then those with this condition can be treated before esophageal cancer develops.

Source
Digestive Disease Week 22/23 May 2006

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