Epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of Barrett's esophagus: reducing mortality from esophageal adenocarcinoma

The definition of Barrett's esophagus (BE) has evolved over time. BE is the key premalignant lesion at risk for developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). In this article the epidemiology and pathophysiology of BE are outlined, and risk factors for BE and EAC are reviewed. Detection of early neoplasia is the present approach to reduce EAC mortality. Novel technology should assist in the early detection of dysplasia to enable targeted therapy. Effective chemopreventive strategies may reduce the risk of progression to EAC.