How To Get Word Out?

I had an esophagectomy (Ivor-Lewis) for EC in 2005. I am doing very well at this point. However, every time I see a commercial for an acid-reflux drug I get quietly angry. All of these ads have a guarded warning about serious stomach conditions at the end, about the time your mind is tuning out. This makes me CRAZY(ier). The people that are listening are just the people that should be tested for EC. I believe the ads should shout a warning.

I also believe that these drugs should not be available over-the-counter. Not because I don't believe people should have access to them, but I believe people will use them to mask problems until it's too late. If a doctor had to prescribe them at least there would be a chance for the doctor to order an endoscopy. Maybe a program where they had to be dispensed, with a printed warning, from the druggist would work??

ABC Evening News ran a series on health issues about a year ago. The stories they had on acid reflux were good, but they too stopped short of really warning of cancer risk. I e-mailed ABC News, expressing my disappointment, but heard nothing.

How can we help get the word out?

 KEEP MOVING,

Steve

Have you seen the ECAA pamphlets to help raise awareness about esophageal cancer? I believe I've seen a llink to print them too. Some folks leave them in ther doctors offices for patient education, and poeple say they use them to raise awareness at relays, etc. I totally agree about over the counter usage putting people at higher risk, because they avoid their doctors who might diagnose them.

Unfortunately our society and the insurance institutions that run the medical care in this country would rather bet their dollars on treating diagnosed issues then preventative care! How many times have you asked your doctor for an xray or lab test and they gently sway you away.....because they will get slapped on the hand for spending too much of their allowance on you. Instead they diagnose without testing and quickly put one on medication such as Prilosec.