Do you suffer from reflux? The Mayo Clinic warns that far from being a harmless condition, it can be very painful and lead to cancer.

The Mayo Clinic warns that untreated acid reflux can cause serious damage to the esophagus and even lead to cancer. In Colombia, where 15% of the population suffers from this condition, new treatments like Tegoprazan aim to offer faster and more sustained acid control, addressing the limitations of traditional therapies.

Many people, either out of habit or because they downplay it, ignore the burning sensation that rises from their stomach to their throat. Sometimes they attribute it to stress, a heavy dinner, or too much coffee. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, behind this persistent discomfort may lie a silent disease that, if left untreated , can lead to serious consequences: gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

According to the first Latin American Consensus on this condition, conducted in 2022, 15% of Colombians suffer from reflux . This disorder occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus due to a malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, a valve-like mechanism that should prevent this backflow. When it fails, the acid irritates the lining of the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, nighttime coughing, or difficulty swallowing.

Although it may initially seem like a minor annoyance, persistent acid reflux can lead to esophagitis, ulcers, Barrett's esophagus, and even esophageal cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. In severe cases, the acid can cause bleeding, scarring that narrows the esophagus, or damage to teeth through enamel erosion. Respiratory problems resulting from acid passing into the lungs have also been documented.

Despite its consequences, only four out of ten patients consult a doctor, which means that a large proportion of those who suffer from reflux live with the pain and discomfort without a diagnosis or adequate treatment.

For years, reflux management has relied on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), medications that reduce acid production. While often effective, their effects are not always long-lasting. Many patients report that relief is slow to arrive or that symptoms return before the next dose.

Added to this is a genetic trait that specifically affects Colombians. More than 80% of the population belongs to the group of "rapid metabolizers," meaning their bodies process medications so quickly that they lose their effectiveness more easily. "That's why it's common to hear that the medication 'doesn't do anything,'" explains Dr. Pablo David López, surgeon and medical manager for Carnot in Latin America.

Given this situation , pharmacological innovation has taken a step forward with Tegoprazan (Ki-CAB®), a new type of gastric acid inhibitor that acts more quickly and stably. According to clinical studies, it begins to take effect in 30 minutes and maintains its action for 24 hours, including the control of nighttime acid reflux, one of the most bothersome symptoms for patients.

“Particularly in cases of grade C and D esophagitis, Tegoprazan showed significantly higher levels of healing than traditional treatments,” López points out. Furthermore, its effectiveness is not dependent on the patient's genetics, guaranteeing consistent action regardless of metabolic rate.

What should you do if you frequently experience symptoms?

One of the most important changes you need to make is in your lifestyle. Avoiding very fatty or spicy foods , reducing your consumption of alcohol, coffee, and tobacco, and eating dinner at least two hours before bedtime are basic measures to prevent reflux . Sleeping with your torso slightly elevated and maintaining a healthy weight can also make a difference.

However, when symptoms persist despite these habits, consulting a specialist is essential. Early diagnosis allows for the prevention of irreversible damage and the identification of the most appropriate treatment.