Endoscopic screening for oesophageal cancer: empowering artificial intelligence with a high-quality examination

Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma, the predominant oesophageal cancer subtype in the world, has a poor prognosis when diagnosed at a late stage.1 Data to support the practice of endoscopic screening for oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma in populations at risk come from prospective cohort studies and randomised controlled trials that show a significant improvement in early detection and treatment, with an associated reduction in all-cause mortality.2 A high-quality endoscopic screening examination for oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma involves systematic visualisation of the entire oesophagus, preferentially with the use of high-definition white light endoscopy in combination with digital chromoendoscopy.