In Barrett’s oesophagus , there are changes in the normal cells that line the food pipe (oesophagus or gullet). This is caused by acid coming back up the food pipe from the stomach (acid reflux). Over a long period of time, people with Barrett’s oesophagus can develop ulcers or narrowing of the food pipe (oesophageal stricture). There is also a small increase in risk of oesophageal cancer. People with Barrett’s oesophagus usually have an endoscopy every 2 years to check for these conditions.

There is no easy screening test available at the moment to pick up Barrett’s oesophagus. Doctors are concerned that many people with Barrett’s oesophagus may not be identified. People may be diagnosed with Barrett’s oesophagus as a result of an endoscopy and biopsy (tissue sample). But this is quite an invasive test and doctors do not recommend that it is used routinely.

– Are between 50 and 70 years old
– Have taken medication for acid indigestion or heartburn for more than 3 months in the last 5 years as identified from the GP prescribing database.
– Only patients registered with specific participating GP practices are invited to take part.

University of Cambridge: Professor Jon Emery, Dr Fiona Walter, Dr Helen Morris, Paul Pharoah
Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge: Maria O’Donovan, Richard Hardwick
University of Bristol: Jane Blazeby
University of Melbourne: Alex Boussioutas