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Sponge on a string test pilot rolled out in pharmacies

NHS England has announced the rollout of a 'sponge on a string' test in high street pharmacies. Aimed at those experiencing persistent heartburn or acid reflux, this two-year pilot hopes to prevent cases of oesophageal cancer. This rapid test takes just ten minutes and, once processed in a lab, can detect pre-cancerous changes in the oesophageal lining, known as Barrett's…
Ben Kemp
July 16, 2025