Barrett's esophagus

My voice has been hoarse for 2 months dispite ppi bid.  Upper endoscopy showed Barrett's and I am waiting for the results of my bx's.  Since I smoked for 35 out of 37 years, statistically what are my chances of having cancer?  I am very afraid, since I would not be able to withstand any kind of operation.  Also I have a hiatus hernia.

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi Merla,
The risk of developing cancer due to Barrett's esophagus is 40 times  more than the general population. The risk is further increased because of the associated smoking.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.

[ryunkin]

If you have a hiatus hernia, which can cause acid to back up into the esophagus, I suggest that you get you make a trip to Shouldice Hernia Clinic in Thornhill Ontario and have it corrected.

I had two inguinals repaired in 1981 and I have been more than fine for the past 27 years, despite pressing like a sun-of-a-gun because of chronic constipation. Shouldice is far and away the best place to go for hernia repair. The procedure is painless and they also give a lifetime guarantee on any operation. But do not, I repeat, do not have it done in the states, they're totally incompetent.

[Merla]

Thank you for the information about possible surgery, yes I also have a hiatus hernia buy surgery wasn't mentioned at  all, just repeat upper endoscopy every year.  

They did find Barretts but biopsy didn't show malignancy (knock on wood) but have to take PPI's for rest of my life.

I have several other risks for surgery, one of the worst is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, not sure if this eliminates me from ANY surgery in the future, except (knocking wood) an emergency.

The PPI's help somewhat with the hoarse voice.

Merla