Over the last 20 years, a large proportion of research in the field of gastroenterology has focused on improving endoscopic imaging and developing minimally invasive therapy for benign and malignant conditions. Both conceptually and practically, these avenues advance concomitantly: refinement of endoscopic imaging leads to earlier diagnosis, and a growing number of endoscopic treatment modalities can be offered. In addition, preventive medicine has triggered studies on the natural history of premalignant conditions, aiming to define the boundaries for early therapeutic intervention.