People with persistent heartburn or acid reflux may now be eligible for a free EndoSign® capsule sponge test at selected pharmacies across Nottinghamshire.
A new NHS pilot is giving eligible people in Nottinghamshire and surrounding areas access to the EndoSign® capsule sponge test, a quick and minimally invasive test that can help identify Barrett’s oesophagus.
The pilot is running until March 2027 and is being delivered through selected community pharmacies, making testing available in a familiar and accessible setting.
Barrett’s oesophagus can develop as a result of long-term acid reflux and can increase the risk of developing oesophageal cancer. Identifying Barrett’s oesophagus earlier can allow people to receive appropriate follow-up and care.
Who may be Eligible?
The pilot is aimed at people who:
- Are aged 45 or over
- Have persistent heartburn or acid reflux
- Live in or around Nottingham, Derby, Kirkby-in-Ashfield or Mansfield
If you meet these criteria, you can enquire about having the capsule sponge test at one of the participating pharmacies.
Where Can I Have the Test?
The participating pharmacies are:
Boots Nottingham Victoria Centre
Victoria Centre
239 Upper Mall
Nottingham
NG1 3QP
Boots Derby Derbion Shopping Centre
Derbion Shopping Centre
1 Devonshire Walk
Derby
Derbyshire
DE1 2AH
Well Pharmacy
Crown Medical Centre
Crown Farm Way
Forest Town
Mansfield
NG19 0FW
Oakwood Pharmacy
14 Church St
Mansfield Woodhouse
Mansfield
NG19 8AH
Affinity Pharmacy
130–132 Forest Rd
Annesley Woodhouse
Kirkby-in-Ashfield
Nottingham
NG17 9HH
If you think you may be eligible, please visit one of the participating pharmacies to enquire about the test.
What is the Capsule Sponge Test
The capsule sponge test involves swallowing a small capsule attached to a fine thread. Once the capsule reaches the stomach, it dissolves and releases a small sponge.
A healthcare professional gently pulls the sponge back up through the mouth, collecting cells from the oesophagus. These cells are then sent for testing.
The test does not involve the use of an endoscope and can be completed quickly.
Part of a Wider NHS Initiative
The Nottinghamshire pilot is part of a wider NHS initiative exploring the use of capsule sponge testing in community settings.
The initiative will also see the test rolled out in selected pharmacies across London.
For Heartburn Cancer UK, improving access to testing and supporting earlier identification of Barrett’s oesophagus is an important part of our work to improve the early detection of oesophageal cancer.
Find Out More
You can also find out more about the wider pilot and what it hopes to achieve in a previous HCUK news story.
Please note: Eligibility and availability are determined as part of the NHS pilot. If you are concerned about persistent heartburn or acid reflux, speak to your GP or healthcare professional.
