Testing a sponge device to detect Barrett's esophagus without invasive procedures

This study is testing a new minimally invasive device called the Cytosponge — a small sponge on a string that you swallow to collect cells from your esophagus. Researchers want to see if the cells collected this way can be analyzed using a test called the Oncoguard Esophagus test to detect Barrett's esophagus and early warning signs of cancer. The goal is to offer people a simpler, safer alternative to traditional endoscopy (a procedure where a camera is passed down your throat).

Barrett's esophagus is a condition where acid reflux damages the lining of your esophagus and can increase cancer risk, but it's often detected only through invasive endoscopy. This trial exists to see if a simpler, less invasive sponge device could be an easier way for doctors to screen patients and catch this condition earlier.