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.
Questions About Esophageal Cancer?
Schedule an AppointmentRelated Stories
Newsweek Names the Best ASCs for 2025
We’re proud to care for patients at so many of Newsweek's America's Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers 2025. Gastro Health Evergreen Endoscopy Center, Gastro Health Norwood Endoscopy Center, and eight of our partner facilities all earned spots on this year’s list.
Read ArticleMultiple Gastro Health ASCs Ranked Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers by U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report released its inaugural ranking of best ambulatory surgery centers in May 2024, and Gastro Health had 16 winners.
Read ArticleGERD and Pregnancy: Managing the Effects
Understanding GERD during pregnancy is not just about diagnosing symptoms but also finding safe and effective ways to manage it. Read on to learn more.
Read Article