Gastroenterologist warns persistent heartburn can be a symptom of esophageal cancer: Link with GERD, symptoms, more

Published on: Sep 8, 2025, 11:28:02 IST

By Eshana Saha

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Dr. Joseph Salhab recommends consulting a doctor if you experience recurring acid reflux or have long-term GERD. (Pixabay)

Persistent heartburn or acid reflux is very common and often dismissed as poor digestive health. However, Dr. Joseph Salhab warns about the cancer link.

Do you often brush off heartburn as just poor digestion? While it may seem harmless, frequent heartburn can sometimes signal more serious underlying conditions - including cancers.

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Gastroenterologist Dr. Joseph Salhab, a specialist in digestive health, liver, pancreas, and nutrition, warns that persistent heartburn may signal esophageal cancer and highlights the strong link between GERD and cancer. In an Instagram video shared on September 8, the doctor outlines key symptoms of esophageal adenocarcinoma and highlights who faces higher risk. Dr. Salhab emphasizes the rising cases of esophageal cancer linked to GERD, adding that “according to the NCI, among those aged 45 to 64, the esophageal cancer rate nearly doubled from 2012 to 2019.” He stressed that early detection and regular monitoring are crucial, urging those with chronic GERD to consult a doctor and undergo screening.

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A post shared by Dr. Joseph Salhab (@thestomachdoc)

GERD and esophageal cancer

According to Dr. Salhab, esophageal adenocarcinoma is strongly associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While heartburn is not synonymous to GERD, it can be a symptom of the same. The gastroenterologist recommends seeing a doctor if you experience frequent heartburn, occurring more than twice a week, and if the symptoms persist in the long run. Dr. Salhab warns, “Long term acid exposure over time to the esophagus can cause damage to it — and lead to a precancerous condition called Barrett’s esophagus, which can progress to esophageal cancer if not monitored over time.”

Who is more at risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus?

Men are 3-4 times more vulnerable to develop the condition.
People aged over 50.
Caucasians.
Individuals with obesity, especially abnormal obesity.
People with a habit of smoking.
Ones with a family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer.

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Symptoms of esophageal cancer

Dysphagia or difficulty swallowing.
Unintentional weight loss.
Recurring chest pain or pressure.
Recurring cough or hoarse throat.
Food getting stuck in the throat.
Indigestion or heartburn that worsens over time.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eshana Saha
Eshana Saha is a fresh face in lifestyle and cultural journalism, bringing a refined, multidisciplinary perspective to the intersection of entertainment, fashion and holistic wellbeing. With less than a year of professional experience, she has quickly adapted to high-pressure editorial environments and currently works full-time with HT Media. Prior to this, she interned for nearly six months with Hindustan Times’ entertainment and lifestyle vertical, where she gained hands-on experience in digital reporting, trend analysis and editorial storytelling. Based in New Delhi, Eshana specialises in comprehensive coverage of major cultural moments — from international film press tours to the curated aesthetics of global fashion showcases, award shows and music-centred events. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from St Xavier’s University, Kolkata, and a Master’s degree in English from the University of Delhi, equipping her with a strong academic foundation and a keen ability to deconstruct complex cultural trends into clear, high-impact narratives. Beyond the red carpet, Eshana has developed a growing focus on health and wellbeing reporting. She bridges the gap between celebrity-driven trends and practical, evidence-informed lifestyle advice, ensuring her work remains both aspirational and grounded in editorial rigour. She has extensively covered the health implications of Delhi’s air pollution crisis, while also playing a key role in amplifying expert-led insights on women’s health and mental wellbeing, helping translate complex medical perspectives into informed, impactful public awareness. An artist at heart, she explores multiple creative forms — from visual arts and music to culinary experiments — and brings a creative’s eye for nuance, texture and detail to every story. Whether analysing runway dynamics or examining emerging wellness movements, she remains committed to accuracy and the highest standards of contemporary journalistic ethics.Read More

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