In News

Follow this topic

Bookmark

Record learning outcomes

Community pharmacies in the East Midlands have started trialling an NHS-funded oesophageal cancer testing service.

Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board said 79 patients with persistent heartburn or acid reflux have so far been tested by five pharmacies rolling out the pilot using the capsule sponge test called EndoSign.

As part of the test, patients swallow a small capsule attached to a strong, thin thread and after a few minutes in the stomach, the capsule dissolves.

A small sponge is released and collects cells from the oesophagus as the pharmacist gently pulls it back up. Those cells are sent to be tested and patients whose EndoSign results need further investigation are referred for an endoscopy. Twenty-five of the 79 patients have been referred so far.

Two of the five pharmacies trialling the technology are independents; Oakwood Pharmacy and Affinity Pharmacy in Nottingham. Two branches of Boots, in Nottingham and Derbyshire, and a Well Pharmacy in Mansfield, are also rolling out the service.

Patients have until March 2027 to sign up for the test which identifies underlying oesophageal conditions, such as the pre-cancerous Barrett’s oesophagus.

“If left undiagnosed, these related oesophageal conditions can develop into oesophageal cancer. Early diagnosis is vital to prevent this,” Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB said.

It urged people over the age of 45 who are experiencing persistent heartburn or acid reflux and are local to Nottingham, Derby, Kirkby-In-Ashfield or Mansfield to sign up to the EndoSign test.