Heartburn to Cancer? Doctors Explain GERD, Barrett’s & Life‑Saving Treatments

What’s the connection between acid reflux (GERD), Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal cancer — and when should you get checked? In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, radio host Lisa Foxx sits down with two leading experts from UCI Health.

• Dr. Jason Samarasena, Interventional Gastroenterologist & Chief of Gastroenterology
• Dr. Brian Smith, Gastrointestinal Surgeon

Together, they break down how chronic heartburn can silently damage the esophagus, why symptoms aren’t always reliable, and how early detection can prevent cancer. You’ll learn:

• The step‑by‑step progression from GERD → Barrett’s → esophageal cancer
• Why men over 50 are at higher risk
• Common and silent symptoms most people miss
• How endoscopy and new non‑invasive screening tools detect Barrett’s earlier
• Breakthrough minimally invasive treatments that can reverse damage
• When surgery is needed — and how UCI Health preserves quality of life

This conversation empowers patients with knowledge and hope, showing how modern medicine can stop esophageal cancer before it starts.

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