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Home > Can Esophageal Cancer Be Prevented?

Can Esophageal Cancer Be Prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent cancer of the esophagus. However, if you know your risk, you can be more aware.

Most people who get this cancer are at least 40. Men are three times more likely to get it than women. African-Americans are half again as likely as whites to develop this type of cancer.

Other factors that increase your risk of developing esophageal cancer:

Barrett esophagus (the result of long-time reflux of stomach fluids into the lower esophagus)
Long-standing heartburn, also called acid reflux or GERD
Using tobacco in any form
Long-term heavy drinking
Being overweight
Not eating enough fruits and vegetables
Drinking lots of very hot liquids
Working with chemicals used in the dry cleaning industry
Accidentally swallowing lye as a child
Achalasia, a disease where the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus doesn’t open to release food into the stomach
Tylosis, a rare, inherited disease where extra skin grows on the palms and the soles of the feet; people with this disease are at very high risk
Esophageal webs, pieces of tissue that extend into the esophagus and make it hard to swallow

Early Detection

If you are at high risk, you should have regular exams of your esophagus. Talk to your doctor about referring you to a gastroenterologist. Exams would be the best way to find cancer early.

This cancer doesn’t usually have symptoms until it is advanced.

The most common symptom is difficulty swallowing -- you feel like food is stuck in your chest. Sometimes, people have chest pain, but that could also be a symptom of ordinary heartburn. Many people with esophageal cancer lose weight without trying, because they can’t eat enough. If you have any of these symptoms, see your family doctor right away.

This page last updated 2/12/08 04:08 PM

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