Barrett's esophagus

Barrett's esophagus is a disorder caused by damage to the lining of the esophagus walls due to gastric acid. It occurs as a consequence of chronic gastroesophageal reflux, and its prevalence ranges from 1.5% to 3.6%, depending on ethnic origin.

The appearance of Barrett's esophagus is mainly associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, damaging the tissue and causing changes in its lining.

The risk factors that predispose to Barrett's esophagus are the following:

• Having gastroesophageal reflux disease that does not improve with appropriate treatments.
• Family history of the disease or esophageal cancer.
• Gender, being much more common in men than in women.
• Ethnic origin, as Caucasian people have a higher risk.
• Age, being more common from the age of 50.
• Smoking.
• Obesity or overweight as abdominal fat also increases the risk.

Barrett's esophagus often begins associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease, which can include the following signs and symptoms:

• Frequent heartburn and regurgitation of stomach contents.
• Some difficulty swallowing food.
• Occasionally, chest pain.

However, many of those affected by Barrett's esophagus do not present any symptoms associated with reflux.

The prevention of Barrett's esophagus involves the prevention and proper management of gastroesophageal reflux, avoiding foods and situations that can cause an increase in gastric contents. The foods associated with this can be coffee, alcohol, tobacco, high-fat foods, among others.

Barrett's esophagus is associated with a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer, so it is important for affected individuals to undergo periodic screenings to facilitate early detection. Additionally, although the risk of developing esophageal cancer is low, it can be minimized with proper therapeutic management of gastroesophageal reflux.