April is Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month and physicians at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center remind everyone that frequent and persistent heartburn could be a sign of a serious medical condition.

Recurring heartburn can be a symptom of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD. GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, often causing heartburn, chest pain, and chronic cough, and can lead to more serious conditions, including esophageal cancer.

CRMC encourages anyone experiencing symptoms more than twice a week to seek the advice of their personal doctor.