Frequent heartburn could be a warning sign of cancer risk: Experts reveal how acid reflux can damage your oesophagus

Heartburn is a common condition that most people experience occasionally, often described as a burning sensation rising from the chest to the throat. It usually occurs after consuming spicy, oily, or heavy meals, prompting many to rely on antacids for quick relief. However, experts warn that frequent or persistent heartburn should never be ignored. According to Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford, ongoing heartburn may signal gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus. If left untreated, GERD can cause long-term damage to the oesophageal lining and significantly increase the risk of developing serious complications such as Barrett’s oesophagus and even oesophageal cancer.