Does chronic heartburn mean cancer is looming? - Esophagus - medical research - Brief Article

If you have heartburn, it's unlikely that you are on a path to esophageal cancer, as some advertisements for heartburn medications imply. Nevertheless, chronic heart-burn can cause medical complications, and you should talk with your doctor about your individual situation, cautions the Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource.

Every day, about 10% of Americans have heartburn. Usually, it is fleeting and mild. Chronic heartburn that occurs several times a week could indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). There are several ways to treat GERD, beginning with lifestyle changes such as exercising, losing weight, and avoiding foods that trigger heartburn. Medications and surgery also could help.

Only about five percent of people with GERD have Barrett's esophagus, a condition in which cells similar to the stomach's lining develop in the lower esophagus. Those with Barrett's esophagus are at greater risk of developing esophageal cancer. The statistics don't indicate panic, but check with your doctor if your heartburn is chronic and isn't controlled by antacids.

COPYRIGHT 2003 Society for the Advancement of Education
COPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group