Somerset adopts pioneering test to detect early oesophageal cancer
New project uses AI to identify those at risk and invite them for testing
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is leading the way in the early detection of oesophageal cancer with a new initiative launched in Bridgwater, Chard, and Langport.
Thousands of people are being proactively contacted through text messages, inviting them to book a quick test that could identify cancer before symptoms develop.
The project is a collaboration between the trust and C the Signs, an artificial intelligence platform that scans GP records to identify patients meeting specific clinical risk factors for oesophageal cancer.
Around 3,000 people in Somerset may be at higher risk, with over 1,900 patients already contacted and a positive response rate of 18%.
Nearly 350 people have undergone the capsule sponge test, which has led to early cancer detection and identification of Barrett’s oesophagus, a precursor condition.
The project began at Taunton Road Medical Centre in Bridgwater and now extends to all local GP practices, aiming to reach eligible patients across Somerset.
Patients identified by the system receive a text recommending an appointment, and the trust encourages individuals to trust the message and book a test.
Rosie Edgerley, cancer programme manager at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, outlined the process and urged recipients to act on the text message.
“We’ve started in Bridgwater and are extending to all GP practices within Somerset,” Edgerley said. “Using artificial intelligence, we identify patients at risk for early-stage cancer and recommend they complete a short assessment form. If eligible, they undergo a capsule sponge test.”
A minimally invasive procedure, the capsule sponge test involves swallowing a small capsule attached to a string that collects oesophageal cells for analysis.
Consultant gastroenterologist and project clinical lead Dr Emma Wesley highlighted the importance of early detection.
“Oesophageal cancer is often caught late, with one in four patients diagnosed at stage 1 or 2,” Dr Wesley explained. “Early detection is crucial as symptoms often appear at stages 3 or 4 when treatment options are limited.”
The project supports the National Cancer Plan's goal for 75% of diagnosed patients to be cancer-free or living well after five years by 2035.
Bridgwater was chosen due to socioeconomic factors like smoking and obesity, and benefits from diagnostic resources at Bridgwater Hospital.
“Few NHS trusts have reached out this way to patients, using a case-finding and direct contact approach,” Dr Wesley added. “It’s like a filter test: negative results discharge the patient, while positives require further endoscopy. We encourage engagement if you receive a message.”