The association between acid reflux and Barretts esophagus was first described in the early 1950s. It wasnât until several years later that physicians realized that it was an alteration of the lining of the esophagus. In Barretts esophagus the lining changes and starts to resemble other parts of the GI tract. Barretts is a pre-courser to cancer. Today gastroenterologists typically manage the condition. With modern technologies they can detect and treat cancer at a very early stage. For more information, call: 1-800-MD-SINAI.