Upstate firefighters are undergoing new cancer detection procedures, the first of its kind in the nation.
Company officials say EsoGuard is the first and only commercially available esophageal DNA test on the market.
The screening involves swallowing a balloon-equipped capsule that collects cells from the esophagus. Officials said the process takes about five minutes and provides a quick and non-invasive way to detect early signs of esophageal cancer.
EsoGuard is a DNA test that detects precancerous cells and Barrett's esophagus in the esophagus:
Procedure
During a five-minute test, the patient swallows a capsule that contains a balloon and a catheter. The balloon inflates to collect cells from the lower esophagus, then the capsule is deflated and retrieved. The cells are sent to a lab for analysis, and results are usually available within a few weeks.
Who should take the test?
People with a history of mild heartburn, GERD, or other risk factors for esophageal cancer, like firefighters, are often exposed to toxic fumes and chemicals.
“This screening is huge and impactful. Ultimately, it could save their lives," said Dr. Daniel Schwerin, the medical director for Pickens County EMS.
Company officials said around 25 fire departments in the Upstate have been screened so far this year, with the goal of testing every emergency responder who meets the criteria to get tested. "It's very easy, very quick. And there's no reason not to," said Randy Cobb, a paramedic with Pickens County EMS.
Like all other tests, there is the potential of false positive outcomes. Plus there are occasional side effects for some patients like diarrhoea, stomach pain, flatulence, dryness in mouth, dizziness, headache and other uncommon and rare side effects.
“We put a lot of people ahead of ourselves in this line of work," Cobb added. "If we don’t look after our health”, we can’t look after others and be effective."
This screening isn’t limited to firefighters. Doctors advise that individuals with risk factors, including family history, should also consider getting screened.
To request a screening you can send an email to abc@luciddx.com.
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