Hoag Digestive Health Institute Unveils Innovative Esophageal Cancer Screening Tool to Save Lives
The Hoag Digestive Health Institute is making history as it becomes the first hospital in the United States to implement a comprehensive program featuring an innovative, non-invasive tool for esophageal cancer screening, known as EsoGuard. This tool is particularly significant as it addresses the growing concern surrounding esophageal cancer, especially considering the alarming rise of the disease in recent years.
EsoGuard is a cutting-edge esophageal DNA test developed by Lucid Diagnostics and represents a dramatic shift in how at-risk patients are screened. Traditionally, screening for conditions like Barrett’s Esophagus (BE)—a precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma—required invasive endoscopic procedures, which many patients were understandably hesitant to undergo. EsoGuard eliminates this barrier, as it can be administered in a straightforward, on-site procedure that requires no sedation.
The examination involves a simple swallowing of a tethered capsule, approximately the size of a gelcap, which collects cells from the esophagus during retrieval. These cells are sent for analysis at Lucid Diagnostics' laboratory to determine whether there are precancerous changes or if the esophagus remains healthy. This rapid and non-invasive approach is expected to significantly increase the number of patients being screened, especially those at higher risk due to factors such as chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), obesity, a history of smoking, or a family history of esophageal conditions.
According to Dr. Kenneth J. Chang, a world-renowned gastroenterologist and the Executive Medical Director at Hoag, the introduction of EsoGuard is a monumental step in the collective mission to eradicate esophageal cancer in Orange County. Dr. Chang emphasizes that, "The incidence of esophageal cancer has increased ten-fold in the past four decades, yet most patients at risk aren't being sufficiently screened." With this new tool, not only will screening become more accessible, but it will also facilitate early detection and intervention, significantly improving patient outcomes.
Esophageal cancer is notably the second most lethal cancer in the United States when evaluated by survival rates, reinforcing the importance of early detection. Dr. Chang notes that treating Barrett's Esophagus can reduce the risk of developing cancer by up to 90%. Thus, identifying the condition early is critical for potentially saving lives.
Hoag is committed to offering EsoGuard at both its Irvine and Newport Beach Digestive Health clinics. This integration of revolutionary technology into their screening programs allows physicians to swiftly identify and address precancerous conditions with unprecedented accuracy. As the industry shifts towards more patient-friendly and efficient solutions, EsoGuard epitomizes the future of esophageal health care.
For those wanting to take charge of their esophageal health, appointments can be made through Hoag Digestive Health at 949-764-2795. More information about EsoGuard and its applications in screening can also be found on Hoag’s website.
The Hoag health system is renowned for its commitment to delivering comprehensive and exceptional medical care across various specialties. With over 1,800 physicians, 11 wellness centers, and two award-winning hospitals, Hoag stands as a pillar of health care excellence in Orange County, California, consistently receiving high rankings and recognition nationally. This innovative approach to esophageal cancer screening reaffirms Hoag's dedication to patient health and well-being.
EsoGuard is a cutting-edge esophageal DNA test developed by Lucid Diagnostics and represents a dramatic shift in how at-risk patients are screened. Traditionally, screening for conditions like Barrett’s Esophagus (BE)—a precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma—required invasive endoscopic procedures, which many patients were understandably hesitant to undergo. EsoGuard eliminates this barrier, as it can be administered in a straightforward, on-site procedure that requires no sedation.
The examination involves a simple swallowing of a tethered capsule, approximately the size of a gelcap, which collects cells from the esophagus during retrieval. These cells are sent for analysis at Lucid Diagnostics' laboratory to determine whether there are precancerous changes or if the esophagus remains healthy. This rapid and non-invasive approach is expected to significantly increase the number of patients being screened, especially those at higher risk due to factors such as chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), obesity, a history of smoking, or a family history of esophageal conditions.
According to Dr. Kenneth J. Chang, a world-renowned gastroenterologist and the Executive Medical Director at Hoag, the introduction of EsoGuard is a monumental step in the collective mission to eradicate esophageal cancer in Orange County. Dr. Chang emphasizes that, "The incidence of esophageal cancer has increased ten-fold in the past four decades, yet most patients at risk aren't being sufficiently screened." With this new tool, not only will screening become more accessible, but it will also facilitate early detection and intervention, significantly improving patient outcomes.
Esophageal cancer is notably the second most lethal cancer in the United States when evaluated by survival rates, reinforcing the importance of early detection. Dr. Chang notes that treating Barrett's Esophagus can reduce the risk of developing cancer by up to 90%. Thus, identifying the condition early is critical for potentially saving lives.
Hoag is committed to offering EsoGuard at both its Irvine and Newport Beach Digestive Health clinics. This integration of revolutionary technology into their screening programs allows physicians to swiftly identify and address precancerous conditions with unprecedented accuracy. As the industry shifts towards more patient-friendly and efficient solutions, EsoGuard epitomizes the future of esophageal health care.
For those wanting to take charge of their esophageal health, appointments can be made through Hoag Digestive Health at 949-764-2795. More information about EsoGuard and its applications in screening can also be found on Hoag’s website.
The Hoag health system is renowned for its commitment to delivering comprehensive and exceptional medical care across various specialties. With over 1,800 physicians, 11 wellness centers, and two award-winning hospitals, Hoag stands as a pillar of health care excellence in Orange County, California, consistently receiving high rankings and recognition nationally. This innovative approach to esophageal cancer screening reaffirms Hoag's dedication to patient health and well-being.
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