can anybody tell me more about Esophagus Cancer?

Answer 1

Hi hopeful. The following quotes are taken from the textbook noted below.

"Cancer of the esophagus is a major health problem throughout the world. It is estimated that 316,000 people were diagnosed with the disease in 1990, making it the eighth most common cancer worldwide. Unfortunately, treatment is largely ineffective, and it remains one of the least survivable cancers... in the U.S, median survival is nine months, with only 7.3% surviving five years."

"In the United States and other developed countries, the two major contributors to the incidence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma are tobacco use and alcohol intake ...together they are estimated to account for 90% of cases of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma."

Another form of esophageal cancer is called 'esophageal adenocarcinoma'. "A key risk factor is gastroesophageal reflux..." "Several studies suggest that a diet high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables increases risk of adenocarcinoma." "Tobacco and alcohol can also increase reflux..."

Potential causes of the gastroesophageal reflux include: 1) hiatal hernia, 2) overweight, 3) poor diet, 4) many prescription drugs including calcium channel blockers, certain asthma medications, and tri-cyclic antidepressants), and 5) the above noted tobacco and alcohol.

I hope you find this is helpful. Best wishes.