According to Gilbert Simoni, a gastroenterologist in Thousand Oaks, California, up to 20% of Americans suffer from typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux about two times a week. President Barrack Obama also joked recently about his acid reflux experience in front of reporters when the health problem interrupted his speech, and said that the burning sensation on his throat stopped him from talking momentarily. Acid reflux usually causes a temporary burning sensation when the gastric juice spills into the esophageal, lungs and throat and for some, a persistent acid reflux may lead to a deadly cancer of the esophagus.
The burning sensation is what most people colloquially refer to as heartburn. According to the American Cancer Society, of the 18,000 people diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2014, 15,000 will die from this health menace.
People who suffer from constant acid reflux usually have to put up with this uncomfortable heartburn sensation and after a protracted period of time, the pain is not felt anymore and most people would erroneously assume this problem has gone away. Experts are now saying that this is when the tumor begins to grow inside the lining of the esophagus where the acids have changed it and subsequently sets off a more serious health complications. according to a health report from Los Angeles Times.
Simoni recommends that any body over the age of 40 should get an endoscopy screening of their gastrointestinal condition, which is usually done as a short procedure under local anesthesia with no pain felt.
According to Mintz Mordecai, the President of Cancer Action Network of America, whose husband Monte Mordecai died of esophagus cancer, anyone who experiences typical or atypical acid reflux should see a doctor immediately to get a screening done. “Being screened and knowing what your risks are could end up saving your life.” She said.
