Who is at risk of developing Barretts esophagus?
Barrett’s esophagus is estimated to affect about 700,000 adults in the U.S. Individuals with symptoms of GERD (for example, heartburn, acid regurgitation, sour taste in the mouth) are at an increased risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus. Individuals older than 50, especially Caucasian men, are at high risk. Barrett’s esophagus also occurs in Caucasian women, and in African Americans and Hispanics. Others groups at risk include obese individuals, those with a large waist circumference, smokers, and anyone with a family history of reflux or esophageal cancer.
