
04/09/2025
Last night, I had the privilege of educating members of the NFL Player's Association, Former Players Chapter, about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophageal cancer, and the critical importance of screening for Barrett’s esophagus. The meeting took place at the Tampa Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.
This experience was particularly special for me, as it was the first time I found myself surrounded by such a remarkable group of talented athletes who have brought immense joy to our lives during their football careers. As a passionate fan of American football, I felt truly honored to give back to our incredible NFL players’ community.
It is essential for patients suffering from acid reflux, especially those requiring long-term medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), to undergo the EsoGuard screening test. This test evaluates for Barrett’s esophagus, a precursory condition for esophageal adenocarcinoma, one of the few completely avoidable deadly cancers.
Key statistics to note include:
• Less than 10% of high-risk GERD patients undergo esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) screening.
• 40% of esophageal adenocarcinoma patients do not have a history of heartburn.
• Over 90% of esophageal adenocarcinoma patients were unaware they had treatable Barrett’s esophagus.
It is important to recognize that GERD is a mechanical problem that should be treated with a mechanical solution.
If you suffer from chronic acid reflux, I encourage you to consult a FOREGUT ROBOTIC SURGEON for evaluation.
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