April is Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month, and the John Michael Pierce Foundation is working with Birmingham Gastroenterology to spread a lifesaving message about early detection.
The foundation was created in memory of Vestavia resident John Michael Pierce, who died from esophageal cancer in 2021 at just 25 years old. Today, the organization partners with physicians at Birmingham Gastroenterology to educate families about the warning signs of the disease and the importance of screening.
“We educate parents and young adults about the early signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer,” says Michelle Jenkins, Pierce’s sister. “Birmingham Gastroenterology is one of the top practices in the country and has been incredibly helpful in sharing our early-detection message.”
Through awareness campaigns, education and research support, the foundation aims to shine a light on a disease that often goes undetected until it has progressed.
About 22,000 new cases of esophageal cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States, and that number is growing, according to Dr. Swaroop Vitta, a gastroenterologist and partner at Birmingham Gastroenterology.
The demographics of the disease have also changed in recent years.
“It used to affect mainly senior men, but now younger populations are being affected,” Jenkins says.
Esophageal cancer carries a high mortality rate, in part because symptoms can be subtle or easily ignored.
“Symptoms are often ignored or not bothersome,” Dr. Vitta says.
Doctors say understanding risk factors and seeking screening when necessary can make a crucial difference.
“There’s not a single known cause, but research suggests chronic irritation of the esophagus can increase the risk,” Dr. Vitta says. “Smoking, obesity and long-standing acid reflux can contribute to that irritation. Conditions like Barrett’s esophagus, which develops when the esophagus is repeatedly exposed to stomach acid, are also associated with higher risk.”
Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, chest pain or pressure, persistent heartburn or indigestion, hoarseness or chronic cough, and frequent hiccups or burping.
“If you have three of the following risk factors — chronic reflux, age over 50, being male, tobacco use or obesity — talk to your doctor about screening or visit bgapc.com to schedule an appointment online,” Dr. Vitta says.
An upper endoscopy is considered the “gold standard for evaluating the esophagus,” Dr. Vitta says, and is routinely performed at Birmingham Gastroenterology.
“We provide comprehensive digestive care with experienced physicians who routinely diagnose and manage conditions affecting the esophagus,” he says. “Early detection and ongoing monitoring can make a significant difference for patients.”
With 12 clinics and 12 procedure locations across Alabama, Birmingham Gastroenterology makes screening accessible for patients throughout the region.
“Don’t ignore persistent symptoms,” Dr. Vitta says. “If you have long-standing reflux or trouble swallowing, tell your doctor.”
The John Michael Pierce Foundation hopes that message will help prevent other families from experiencing the loss they did.
To learn more about the foundation or to donate, visit jmpfoundation.org. To schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist, visit bgapc.com.
