Heartburn could be a warning sign of cancer for thousands in the UK

Key Points:

Experts warn that heartburn could signal oesophageal cancer

UK has one of the highest rates of throat cancer in Europe

10 million Brits experience acid reflux - a key warning sign

HEARTBURN could be a cancer warning sign for thousands of people in the UK, experts warn. New figures show Britain has one of the highest rates of throat cancer in Europe and cases are rising in younger adults. Acid reflux – experienced by one in four Brits, equal to more than 10 million people – is one of the key warning signs.

Call for Awareness:

Campaigners urge better awareness of oesophageal cancer's severity

Early detection crucial as many cases are caught late

Campaigners Action Against Heartburn are calling for better awareness of the "serious problem" posed by oesophageal cancer. Around 9,500 people per year are diagnosed with it in the UK and eight out of 10 die within five years because many cases are caught late.

Rising Cases:

UK has the second-highest rate of new cases in Western Europe

Under-50s seeing a rise in oesophageal cancer cases

Data shows the UK has 14.2 new cases per 100,000 people per year, second only to the Netherlands in Western Europe. Dr Sheraz Markar, an NHS consultant surgeon at Oxford University Hospitals, mentioned that incidence in the UK is disproportionately high, with a rise in cases in the under-50s.

Warning Signs:

Early symptoms include persistent heartburn, cough, hoarse voice, and difficulty swallowing

Key signs to look for include heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, and nausea or vomiting

Dr Markar emphasized the importance of early detection and highlighted key warning signs to watch out for such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, and feeling or being sick.