Have you had an endoscopy for your digestive problems? You may be able to join the MEP study

Right now, there is no non-invasive screening test  for digestive system diseases. We want to change that.

We aim to reduce the risk of esophageal cancer by finding new risk factors and biomarkers from a saliva test. The test that our research is trying to inform will be cheaper, easier and non-invasive. This could earlier identify gastrointestinal problems, preventing progression and saving lives. 

What does study participation involve?

• All study tasks can be completed at home or a place of your convenience
• Consent to participate with a REDCap online portal or in-person meeting
• Complete questionnaires (approximately 1.5 hours)
• Collect saliva samples
• Phone call or email with the study team
• All information that could identify you will be kept confidential
• Participants will receive $20 in thanks for participation

Who can participate?

• Those who have had an endoscopy which found:
  1. Normal results
  2. Barrett’s Esophagus with or without dysplasia
  3. Esophagus cancer
• Men and women ages 18-89
• No history of cancer diagnosis (excluding 2 or 3) or cancer treatment, such as radiation, surgery or chemotherapy
• No oral, intestinal, appendix, or gastroesophageal surgery for 1 month
• No systemic (non-topical) antibiotics, antifungals, or antivirals for 6 months