Risk Factors For Esophageal Cancer

Primary Risk Factors

• Age: The risk of esophageal cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in people over 55.
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop esophageal cancer than women.
• Race: White men have a higher incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that develops in the glandular cells lining the esophagus. Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (ESCC) is a type of cancer that originates in the flat, thin cells lining the esophagus. ESCC is more common in Black men.
• Family History: While esophageal cancer is not typically inherited, some people with a family history of the disease may have an increased risk.

Other Risk Factors

Tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, obesity, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Barrett’s Esophagus, a diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed foods, and exposure to certain chemicals might increase the risk of esophageal cancer.  Certain occupations, such as firefighters, are at a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Testing and Treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving the survival rate for esophageal cancer. Certain procedures such as Upper Endoscopy, EsoGuard, and TIF Procedure can assist in the detection and treatment of esophageal cancer.