News Summary
Hoag Hospital in Irvine, California, becomes the first U.S. hospital to offer the EsoGuard esophageal DNA test, a non-invasive tool designed for early detection of precancerous changes linked to esophageal cancer. This innovative screening can be performed during a routine doctor’s visit, analyzing esophageal cells collected from patients at high risk. With increasing esophageal cancer rates, the test aims to enhance screening accessibility, particularly for those exhibiting symptoms like GERD or with risk factors, significantly improving early detection outcomes.
Irvine, California — Hoag has become the first hospital in the United States to implement the EsoGuard esophageal DNA test, a breakthrough non-invasive screening tool designed to detect precancerous changes linked to esophageal cancer. This innovative program allows patients to undergo the test during a routine doctor’s visit, providing a significant advancement in early detection methods.
The EsoGuard test is non-invasive, does not require sedation, and can be completed in a matter of minutes. It utilizes advanced DNA sequencing technology to analyze esophageal cells collected from patients with a high risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus (BE) or esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). The procedure involves the patient swallowing a small tethered capsule, about the size of a gelcap, which captures esophageal cells for analysis.
Once the cells are collected, they are sent to Lucid Diagnostics’ laboratory for further evaluation to determine whether additional testing is necessary or if the esophagus is healthy. This straightforward approach is pivotal in increasing screening rates among at-risk individuals, ultimately aiming to reduce the incidence of esophageal cancer.
Esophageal cancer rates have surged over the past 40 years, increasing ten-fold, highlighting the urgent need for effective screening strategies. The EsoGuard test is particularly recommended for individuals exhibiting chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), those who are obese, or individuals with a history of smoking or a family history of esophageal cancer. White males over 50 are identified as the demographic at the greatest risk for developing this lethal cancer.
Timely detection of Barrett’s esophagus, the only established precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma, can significantly mitigate cancer risks. When detected early, treatment can lower the risk of progression to cancer by as much as 90%. Given that esophageal cancer has emerged as the second most lethal cancer in the United States based on survival rates, the necessity for early detection cannot be overstated.
Hoag will offer the EsoGuard testing at its Digestive Health clinics located in Irvine and Newport Beach. Patients interested in scheduling an appointment can reach the Hoag Digestive Health department at (949) 764-2795. This convenience further enhances the accessibility of cancer screening services for high-risk patients in the area.
Hoag is a nonprofit health care delivery system situated in Orange County, California, consisting of a team of 1,800 physicians along with a variety of healthcare facilities. The organization is committed to delivering personalized care with a focus on comprehensive health services, which include specialties in both cancer and digestive health. Hoag has received recognition as the highest-ranked hospital in Orange County by U.S. News & World Report and has been listed among the Top 10 hospitals in California.
Incorporating the EsoGuard test into its healthcare offerings marks an essential step forward in combating esophageal cancer, reinforcing Hoag’s ongoing mission to provide innovative and necessary healthcare solutions for its patients. With cancer screening becoming increasingly critical, particularly for those at heightened risk, the availability of the EsoGuard test could play a transformative role in patient outcomes and overall public health.
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Additional Resources
- Newport Beach Indy: Hoag Digestive Health Institute Introduces Revolutionary Screening Tool for Esophageal Cancer
- PR Newswire: Major California Health System Launches Comprehensive Esophageal Precancer Testing Program
- National Cancer Institute: Esophageal Cancer
- Wikipedia: Esophageal Cancer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Esophageal Cancer
