News Summary
Hoag Hospital in Irvine, California, has introduced the EsoGuard program, a non-invasive esophageal cancer screening method that employs a quick DNA test. This innovative approach offers a simple, sedation-free option for high-risk patients to detect Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma, potentially improving early detection and treatment outcomes. The test is particularly recommended for individuals with risk factors such as chronic GERD and obesity. Hoag aims to increase access to diagnostics to combat the rising incidence of esophageal cancer.
Irvine, California – Hoag has launched the first comprehensive EsoGuard program in a U.S. hospital, now providing an innovative non-invasive esophageal cancer screening option. The EsoGuard esophageal DNA test, developed by Lucid Diagnostics, offers a quick, sedation-free method to screen patients at high risk for Barrett’s esophagus (BE) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC).
The EsoGuard test, which can be conducted in just minutes during a doctor’s visit, employs advanced DNA sequencing techniques to identify precancerous changes in esophageal cells. Patients undergo a simple procedure involving a tethered capsule, roughly the size of a gelcap, which collects esophageal cells for analysis at Lucid Diagnostics’ laboratory. The results will indicate whether further testing is necessary or if the esophagus is healthy.
According to experts, this new screening method is expected to significantly enhance screening rates and reduce the incidence of esophageal cancer in at-risk populations. The incidence of esophageal cancer has surged ten-fold over the last four decades, highlighting an urgent need for early detection. Notably, many patients at risk for developing this disease remain unscreened.
The EsoGuard test is particularly recommended for individuals with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), obesity, a history of smoking, or a family history of esophageal cancer or Barrett’s esophagus. Research indicates that white males over 50 are among the highest risk groups for developing esophageal cancer.
Detecting Barrett’s esophagus is critical, as it is the only known precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma. Treatments for BE can reduce the risk of developing esophageal cancer by up to 90%. Therefore, increasing access to diagnostics that support early intervention may play a key role in saving lives.
The EsoGuard service will be available at Hoag’s Digestive Health clinics located in Irvine and Newport Beach. Patients interested in scheduling an appointment for the EsoGuard test can call (949) 764-2795.
Hoag is a nonprofit health care system based in Orange County, boasting a robust network of 1,800 physicians, 17 urgent care facilities, 11 health and wellness centers, and two award-winning hospitals. The facility has received recognition as the highest-ranked hospital in Orange County by U.S. News & World Report, and it stands as the only hospital in the Top 10 in California. Additionally, Hoag has been designated a Magnet® with Distinction hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
This technological advancement at Hoag signifies not only a step forward in esophageal cancer screening but also underscores the hospital’s commitment to improving health outcomes and enhancing the quality of care in the community. By making early screening accessible to at-risk patients, Hoag aims to contribute significantly to the prevention of esophageal cancer and to foster better health management practices within its service area.
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- Newport Beach Indy: Hoag Digestive Health Institute Introduces Revolutionary Screening Tool for Esophageal Cancer
- LA Times: Hoag Doctor Recruited from UC Irvine has Big Plans for Digestive Health
- PR Newswire: Hoag Family Cancer Institute Welcomes Oncology Power Couple
- The Malaysian Reserve: Major California Health System Launches Comprehensive Esophageal Precancer Testing Program
- PR Newswire: Hoag Welcomes Dr. Ronald Wolf as Medical Director of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery
- Wikipedia: Esophageal Cancer
- Google Search: Esophageal Cancer Screening
- Google Scholar: EsoGuard Esophageal DNA Test
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cancer
- Google News: Esophageal Cancer
