Heartburn Cancer UK

Around 8000 people die per year in the UK from oesophageal cancer. The prognosis for those diagnosed is appalling with only 15% living to 5 years. This is the worst survival record for oesophageal cancer in the world, often because diagnosis is made when the condition is already too advanced for treatment. Persistent heartburn is a significant symptom of oesophageal cancer and of a pre-cancerous condition called Barrett’s Oesophagus. HCUK’s main aim is to raise awareness of the importance of having persistent heartburn investigated, rather than simply taking over the counter medication. This will lead to earlier diagnosis of these diseases which will give a significantly improved long-term prognosis and save lives.