gerd or something else

Hello, I am a male caucausian 39 who has had gerd for about 15 years, I have had yearly scopes for the past four years and have been on nexium on and off for years. My last scope was Aug 2007, so I am about four months late. I have been having some stomach pain with irregular bowel movements(no blood) also alot of indegestion. been taking My nexium regular again for about a week. My question is how quick does stomach or espohgeal cancer develop. I am concerned because  I am late for My scope. I dont have any problems swallowing, just pain center under ribs about a 4 on a scale of 10. No barretts on the last scope, three years ago I had grade 2 espohgatis which cleared up with treatment. also mild gastritis. thanks   p.s I had a abdominal mri also about 16 months ago which showed gallbladder sludge and a small hemangioma in my spleen 1.2 cm

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
It takes years to develop cancer. Moreover  not all with GERD develop cancer.

In adults, the average age at the time of diagnosis of Barrett’s esophagus is approximately 55 years. Once Barrett's esophagus develops, the progression to cancer may be rapid.
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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.

[loured]

that was quick!!!  Is there a standard period the cancer takes to progress from stages, can you develop cancer and have it go from stage 1 to stage 1V  in a matter of weeks or does that usaully take many months thank you and happy new year