Innovative 'Sponge' Cancer Test to Launch in UK Pharmacies

Hundreds of individuals suffering from persistent heartburn or acid reflux will soon have access to a revolutionary “sponge on a string” test at high-street pharmacies. This initiative, spearheaded by NHS England, aims to prevent oesophageal cancer by identifying individuals with Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition where stomach acid damages the oesophageal lining, potentially leading to cancer.

Starting early next year, approximately 1,500 people in London and the East Midlands will participate in these innovative “heartburn health checks.” During the test, patients swallow a small capsule attached to a string. Once in the stomach, the capsule dissolves, releasing a sponge about the size of a 1p coin. NHS staff then retrieve the sponge via the string, allowing it to collect cells from the oesophageal lining for laboratory analysis.

Revolutionizing Early Cancer Detection

This test, already in use in hospitals and community diagnostic centers, aims to reduce the need for invasive endoscopies. During the pilot, pharmacists will identify patients frequently purchasing over-the-counter heartburn medications who have not consulted a GP. The pilot is set to run for two years, with potential for broader implementation.

Professor Peter Johnson, NHS national cancer director, emphasized the convenience of the new pilot, stating, “This new pilot brings a convenient test to where people shop, making it easier than ever for patients to check signs and symptoms that might be worrying them.”

“For the majority of people with persistent reflux, these quick and easy heartburn health checks will provide peace of mind that you aren’t at increased risk of cancer,” Johnson added.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

If pre-cancerous cells are detected, treatments such as endoscopy or radiofrequency ablation can be administered. In the UK, nearly 10,000 patients are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer annually, with 80% diagnosed at a late stage. Early diagnosis is crucial, as only one in five people survive beyond a year.

Eddie, a 77-year-old from Suffolk, credits the test with potentially saving his life after years of persistent heartburn. “It used to wake me up at night, but I always thought it was just one of those things,” he shared. “To think that something as simple as swallowing a capsule could uncover a hidden risk is truly remarkable.”

“This test gave me peace of mind and access to early treatment and could mean the difference between life and death for so many others,” Eddie concluded.

Partnerships and Future Prospects

The NHS has partnered with Boots, diagnostics company Cyted Health, and Heartburn Cancer UK for this pilot. Public health minister Ashley Dalton highlighted the initiative as part of a broader 10-year health plan to provide convenient care closer to home.

“Today’s announcement is a fantastic example of the life-saving potential of healthcare on your high street,” Dalton remarked. “Being able to spot the warning signs using a 10-minute test in a local pharmacy – before cancer has even taken hold – will be a game-changer.”

“As part of our Plan for Change to tackle the biggest killers, this government is committed to back innovation and make our NHS fit for the future to drive up this country’s cancer survival rates,” Dalton affirmed.

As the pilot progresses, its success could pave the way for a nationwide rollout, potentially transforming the landscape of cancer prevention and early detection in the UK.