Hiatal Hernia/GERD

Hiya

I'm a 28 male, slim build,a non-smoker and non-drinker. Just been diagnoised with Hiatal Hernia and Gerd. The pain and acide reflux is serve and put on drugs to control it. Now being young and a family history cancer, what are the chances for me to develop Barrett Disease and cancer in the oesophagus?

Any information whould be great

cheers

terry

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi Terry,
Long term uncontrolled GERD leads to Barrett's esophagus.The average age at diagnosis is 60.

Only 5-10% of patients with GERD develop Barrett's esophagus.

Once a patient develops Barrett's esophagus there is 50-100 times increased risk of developing cancer.

Though there are reports of Barrett's esophagus occuring in families, the association is not very significant.

The family history of cancer does not increase the risk of you getting Barrett's esophagus  or cancer.
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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.