What Is It?
Barrett’s esophagus is a condition where the lining of the esophagus changes due to repeated exposure to stomach acid, most often from chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Normally, the esophagus is lined with squamous cells, but in Barrett’s esophagus, these are replaced with a type of cell more commonly found in the intestines—this is called intestinal metaplasia.

Why It Matters
Barrett’s esophagus is considered a precancerous condition, as it raises the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, a rare but serious form of cancer. While most people with Barrett’s do not develop cancer, routine surveillance is key for early detection. Managing acid reflux can help prevent its progression.

Key Facts (At a Glance)

• Linked to: Chronic GERD (affects ~10–15% of people with GERD)

• Risk of cancer: About 0.5% per year develop esophageal cancer

• More common in: Men over 50, white race, people who are overweight or obese

• Often symptomless: Many don’t know they have it until screened for GERD

• Diagnosis: Requires upper endoscopy with biopsy

How It Affects the Body
Acid reflux repeatedly damages the esophageal lining, and over time, the body replaces the damaged squamous cells with columnar cells that are more resistant to acid—similar to those in the intestines. This change is the body’s protective response but is abnormal in the esophagus and increases cancer risk.

Common Symptoms
Barrett’s esophagus itself doesn’t cause symptoms, but people often experience symptoms of GERD, including:

• Heartburn

• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

• Chest pain (less common)

• Chronic cough or hoarseness

Risks & Side Effects

• Progression to dysplasia (abnormal cells that may turn into cancer)

• Esophageal adenocarcinoma

• Ongoing esophageal damage from untreated GERD

• Complications from surveillance procedures (e.g., endoscopy) are rare but possible

Who Should Be Cautious

• Adults with chronic GERD (especially those with symptoms >5 years)

• Men over 50 with GERD and additional risk factors (e.g., central obesity, smoking)

• Caucasians (higher incidence than other racial groups)

• Individuals with a family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer

• People with hiatal hernias

When to See a Doctor
Consult your healthcare provider if you:

• Have frequent heartburn or acid reflux that isn’t relieved with OTC medication

• Experience unexplained weight loss, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing

• Have GERD symptoms and are in a high-risk group for Barrett’s
  Diagnosis is confirmed via upper endoscopy with tissue biopsy. High-risk patients may need routine surveillance(e.g., every 3–5 years).

Related Conditions / Interactions

• GERD is the main risk factor and cause

• Associated with:

  • Esophageal strictures (narrowing)

  • Hiatal hernia

  • Esophageal ulcers

• Can progress from non-dysplastic Barrett’s to low-grade or high-grade dysplasia, then to cancer if untreated

Last Updated: June 15, 2025