Does acid reflux increase the risk of oesophageal cancer?
Chronic reflux can be associated with Barrett’s oesophagus, which increases the risk of one type of oesophageal cancer. Most people with reflux, and most with Barrett’s, do not develop cancer. Endoscopy depends on symptoms and individual risk.
Details
Understanding Barrett’s oesophagus
Barrett’s describes a change in the cells lining the oesophagus; it is not a cancer diagnosis. Heartburn severity cannot establish it. Diagnosis usually requires endoscopy and tissue samples. If Barrett’s is confirmed, biopsy findings and any dysplasia determine the follow-up plan.
Who needs an examination?
Routine repeated endoscopy is not necessary for everyone with heartburn. A clinician considers reflux duration, age, smoking, abdominal obesity and family history before recommending screening. Controlling heartburn does not automatically remove the need for surveillance of confirmed Barrett’s.
Do not overlook warning symptoms
Progressively difficult swallowing, unexplained weight loss or repeated vomiting needs medical assessment. Vomiting blood, or black stools with dizziness, requires urgent help. These symptoms have several possible causes; an examination is more useful than assuming that every symptom is ordinary reflux.
Related reading: Does gastroscopy hurt, and what sedation options are available?.