Racial Disparity in Barrett's Esophagus

The goal of the proposed research is to investigate the molecular mechanisms of racial disparity in Barrett's esophagus (BE), the premalignant lesion of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Specifically, the investigators hypothesize that environmental factors, genetic factors, and potentially gene environment interactions play crucial roles in the observed racial disparity in developing Barrett's esophagus. Patients are recruited through UNC hospitals prior to scheduled esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Participants complete a questionnaire, have body measurements obtained, and have blood, biopsies, and gastric aspirate collected. Participants also complete a 24 hour pH impedance test.

The goal of the proposed research is to investigate the molecular mechanisms of racial disparity in Barrett's esophagus, the premalignant lesion of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Specifically, the investigators hypothesize that environmental factors, genetic factors, and potentially gene environment interactions play crucial roles in the observed racial disparity in developing Barrett's esophagus. Participants: Patients aged 18-80 presenting at the Gastrointestinal (Gl) Endoscopy Clinic at UNC-Chapel Hill for elective upper endoscopy with a primary or secondary indication of reflux symptoms. Procedures (methods): Endoscopic biopsy, pH impedance and sampling of gastric secretions will be performed according to our standard protocol. A series of questionnaires assessing demographics, environmental exposure (e.g., smoking, drinking), markers of socioeconomic status (SES), body measurement, previous health history, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptomatology will be administered to our subjects.