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Should I worry about cancer with long-term GERD symptoms?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have GERD for a decade. I manage it by taking H2 blockers and antacids. I have heartburn on and off for the past few weeks. It becomes worse when I lie down. I do not have problems while swallowing and I have not lost weight. I am taking Prilosec for the past ten days and it takes care of my symptoms with occasional pain at night. I am planning to do an endoscopy next week. But I am terrified whether I have oesophageal cancer. I did an endoscopy 14 days back. Please help me. I am worried.

Answered by Dr. Ajeet Kumar

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ajeet Kumar is a dedicated Physician specializing in gastrointestinal and liver disorders. He focuses on diagnosing and managing a wide range of digestive conditions with a patient-centered and evidence-based approach. His clinical interest includes promoting long-term digestive wellness through accurate evaluation, timely intervention, and personalized care, ensuring patients receive comprehensive support for their overall health and well-being.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I do not know the findings of your previous endoscopy. If you have attached it, it can help to provide you a proper diagnosis. Approximately fifty percent of the population develop GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) in their lifetime. Five percent of people with GERD develop Barrett's esophagus. It is a premalignant condition. Less than one percent of people with Barret's esophagus develop esophageal cancer. The risk of cancer increases when someone has Barret's esophagus or GERD for ten years and a history of peptic stricture due to acid reflux. Do not get tensed and you will become fine.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sneha Kannan
Published At October 1, 2020
Reviewed At May 20, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ajeet Kumar is a dedicated Physician specializing in gastrointestinal and liver disorders. He focuses on diagnosing and managing a wide range of digestive conditions with a patient-centered and evidence-based approach. His clinical interest includes promoting long-term digestive wellness through accurate evaluation, timely intervention, and personalized care, ensuring patients receive comprehensive support for their overall health and well-being.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sneha Kannan is a skilled Dental Surgeon with expertise in providing general dental care, including scaling, fillings, and preventive treatments. She does oral surgery procedures such as extractions and minor surgical interventions. She does procedures in restorative dentistry, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. She is an expert in doing endodontic treatments such as root canal therapy. She is well-versed in doing procedures in cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening and smile correction. She can provide pediatric dental care for children’s oral health and preventive treatments. She promotes oral hygiene awareness and preventive dental practices.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ajeet Kumar is a dedicated Physician specializing in gastrointestinal and liver disorders. He focuses on diagnosing and managing a wide range of digestive conditions with a patient-centered and evidence-based approach. His clinical interest includes promoting long-term digestive wellness through accurate evaluation, timely intervention, and personalized care, ensuring patients receive comprehensive support for their overall health and well-being.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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