Barrett's Esophagus: Who Should Be Checked and How It's Treated
Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which the normal lining of the lower esophagus is replaced by tissue that looks more like the lining of the intestine. It develops in some people with long-term acid reflux (GERD). Barrett's itself causes no symptoms, but it slightly increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
Who should be checked?
Screening is usually recommended for people with chronic reflux symptoms plus several of these risk factors:
- Male sex
- Age over 50
- White race
- Excess weight around the waist
- Current or past smoking
- A close relative with Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer
Diagnosis
Barrett's is found during an upper endoscopy (EGD). We take small biopsies to confirm it and check for dysplasia, which means pre-cancerous changes in the cells.
Treatment and follow-up
- No dysplasia: acid-reducing medicine and repeat endoscopy every few years
- Low-grade dysplasia: closer surveillance or endoscopic treatment
- High-grade dysplasia or very early cancer: endoscopic removal of the abnormal tissue and ablation, such as radiofrequency ablation, which usually avoids surgery
Lowering your risk
- Control reflux with lifestyle changes and medicine
- Stop smoking
- Reach a healthy weight
Make an appointment
Our gastroenterologists in Temple City care for patients from Arcadia, San Gabriel, Pasadena, Monrovia, Monterey Park, and across the San Gabriel Valley. We accept most PPO plans (see accepted insurances), and our doctors speak English, Vietnamese, and Mandarin. Schedule an appointment or call 626-898-4560.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your own health.
Quick Answers
Does Barrett's esophagus turn into cancer?
Rarely. Most people with Barrett's never develop cancer, but the risk is higher than average, so regular check-ups with endoscopy are recommended.
Who should be screened for Barrett's esophagus?
People with long-standing reflux who also have other risk factors, such as being male, over 50, white, overweight around the waist, a smoker, or having a family history of Barrett's or esophageal cancer.
How is Barrett's esophagus treated?
Acid-reducing medicine and regular endoscopy for most people. If pre-cancerous changes (dysplasia) are found, the abnormal lining can be removed or destroyed during endoscopy.
