Researchers at Trinity St James’s Cancer Institute (TSJCI) have shown that a national registry for Barrett’s Esophagus in Ireland is making a real difference in preventing and detecting early-stage esophageal cancer.
Barrett’s Esophagus is a condition where the lining of the esophagus changes, often due to long-term acid reflux, and can increase the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, a serious and fast-growing type of cancer.
The study, published in the journal Annals of Surgery, followed more than 9,400 patients who had been included in Ireland’s National Barrett’s Esophagus Registry and Bioresource since it began in 2011.
The registry was created to improve early diagnosis and prevention of esophageal cancer, which has become more common in Western countries.
Led by experts at the National Center for Esophageal and Gastric Cancer and the National Center for Early Upper Gastrointestinal Neoplasia, both part of TSJCI, the research found that having a well-organized, nationwide program focused on Barrett’s Esophagus works very well.
By using expert tools like high-quality endoscopy (a method to view the inside of the esophagus), precise pathology (the study of disease), and advanced treatment methods like endoscopic eradication therapy, the team was able to catch high-risk cases early—before they developed into cancer.
One of the most exciting results came from patients treated directly at Trinity St James’s Cancer Institute. These patients had a 100% survival rate from cancer related to Barrett’s Esophagus, and only 1% of them needed major surgery after receiving endoscopic therapy.
This shows that when the disease is found early and treated properly, people can recover without needing more invasive procedures.
The study also showed that advanced changes in the esophagus that may lead to cancer are more dangerous when diagnosed at specialist centers, supporting the need for careful monitoring and strong treatment plans.
The research was not only published but also presented at top international events, including the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus in Brisbane, Australia, and the European Surgical Association Congress in Geneva, Switzerland.
Dr. Jessie Elliott, who leads academic work in upper gastrointestinal surgery at TSJCI, explained the importance of the findings.
She said that the study proves how powerful a structured and quality-controlled program can be for identifying and treating high-risk patients. By focusing on early detection and prevention through a national network, the program is helping to reduce the number of people who die from esophageal cancer.
Dr. Elliott also highlighted that this success is thanks to teamwork—not only among medical experts across Ireland but also with patients and the public. The research was made possible in part through community support, including fundraising from Lollipop Day, an annual event that helps raise money for esophageal cancer research.
This study offers hope that with the right systems in place, early detection and prevention can truly save lives in the fight against esophageal cancer.
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