The whole point of screening for cancer is to find the disease very early in asymptomatic patients. As is the case with many cancers, patients with esophagus cancer often feel fine (40% were asymptomatic) and are diagnosed later in the progression of their disease. A new test can accurately detect both esophagus cancer and the precursor (Barrett’s esophagus ) that can develop into cancer. This is analogous to finding both colon cancer and precancerous polyps with screening colonoscopy. The test can be performed in our office and might be covered by insurance.
Guidelines from the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Gastroenterological Association recommend screening in patients with multiple risk factors:
- Patients with chronic esophageal reflux symptoms (heartburn, acid indigestion, etc.)
- Males
- Age over 50 years
- White race
- Tobacco smokers
- Obesity
- Family history of esophagus cancer or Barrett’s esophagus in parents or siblings
Patients already tested via esophagus and stomach endoscopy might not need this test.
This in-office test is simple, takes a few minutes, and does not require sedation. It is called EsoGuard and we will roll out this test in early 2025. We will include EsoGuard in our cancer screening discussion at your next yearly physical appointment. Of course, we can talk earlier if you have any questions or concerns. You can learn more by clicking here.
