High street pharmacies across the East Midlands are piloting a non-invasive capsule sponge test to detect pre-cancerous and cancerous conditions of the oesophagus.
Under the NHS-funded programme, patients experiencing persistent heartburn or acid reflux will have until March 2027 to sign up for the EndoSign test, according to NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
Because heartburn and acid reflux are common everyday complaints, many people tend to ignore their symptoms.
However, persistent reflux can be an early warning sign of Barrett’s oesophagus-a pre-cancerous condition that can develop into oesophageal cancer if left undiagnosed.
The test is being offered across Nottingham, Derby, Kirkby-In-Ashfield and Mansfield, selected Boots stores and independent high street pharmacies.
How the test works
The test involves the patient swallowing a small capsule attached to a strong, thin thread.
After a few minutes in the stomach, the capsule dissolves, releasing a small sponge which collects cells from the oesophagus as it is gently pulled back up by the pharmacist.
The cells are then sent for testing, and the patient is referred for an endoscopy if their EndoSign test returns results that need further investigation.
Early data demonstrates the value of community-based screening: of the 79 patients tested with EndoSign in the region so far, 25 were referred onward for endoscopy.
The NHS board urged patients who are experiencing heartburn or acid reflux to visit the appropriate pharmacy from the list of those participating in the pilot below to enquire about having an EndoSign test.
NHS health boards are encouraging local residents experiencing persistent symptoms to visit one of the five participating pilot pharmacies in the area – two Boots branches in Nottingham and Derby, Well Pharmacy in Mansfield, Oakwood Pharmacy and Affinity Pharmacy.
In February, pharmacy organisations welcomed the NHS National Cancer Plan, which outlines an expanded role for community pharmacies in cancer diagnosis.
