Barrett’s patient takes part in PAN cancer trial

Rebecca Coldrick was diagnosed in her early 30s with Barrett’s oesophagus.

The condition leads to the cells lining the oesophagus becoming abnormal – often caused by acid reflux.

Out of 100 people with Barrett’s oesophagus in the UK, up to 13 could go on to develop oesophageal cancer.

Rebecca, 54, said: “About 20 years ago I developed acid reflux and I began to live on Gaviscon and other indigestion remedies.

“I went to the doctors and shortly after I was diagnosed with Barrett’s. Every two years I have an endoscopy to monitor my condition.”

Monitoring patients to find those at high risk of developing a cancer, like oesophageal, is very intrusive for patients, who may not even develop the disease.

Rebecca decided to take part in the PAN cancer trial for early detection of cancer in breath.

A non-invasive test using this technology could help to further differentiate those likely to develop oesophageal cancer from those less likely to develop the disease.

She added: “I was very happy to take part in the trial and I want to help with research however I can.

“Initially, I thought I might feel a bit claustrophobic wearing the mask, but I didn’t at all.

“I found watching the display on the computer during the test interesting and soon we were done, without any discomfort.

“I think the more research done to monitor conditions like mine and the kinder the detection tests developed, the better.”