Is there any way to prevent barrett's esophagus?

Probably: Barrett's is caused by the bathing of the bottom of the esophogus with irritating substances. Barrett's is considered to be a pre-cancerous condition, so you want to avoid getting it. It can occur even if you take antiacids or drugs like nexium, (esomeprazole) prevacid, Prilosec or tagamet because bile reflux which isn't painful can also cause it. You need to see a GI for endoscopy and follow up.

Metaplasia: Reflux of gastric acid into the esophagus prompts changes in the epithelial lining of esophagus. The epithelium changes from squamous to columnar to better resist the effects of acid. The change, metaplasia is the key component of barrett's. Prevention is by preventing reflux, by losing weight, and if needed by surgical correction of reflux.

Barrett's.: This is a change in the esophagus in response to longstanding reflux. It is a precancerous change which requires frequent surveillance EGDs to make sure cancer is not developing. If Barrett's is found, the abnormal areas can be ablated so that they do not progress to cancer. Remember, reflux comes from an anatomic issue, so medications don't stop reflux and thereby may not prevent Barrett's.