Can esophageal cancer be prevented?
There is not a clear link between family history of esophageal cancer and an individual's risk of developing esophageal cancer. Reflux is the strongest risk factor for esophageal adenocarcinoma. There is increasing evidence that uncontrolled gastroesophageal reflux and obesity are contributing to the epidemic of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Controlling reflux symptoms with dietary modification and medications if necessary, limiting alcohol use, not smoking and weight loss may all reduce the risk of esophageal cancer.
Major symptoms of Esophageal Cancer...
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Heartburn
- Difficulty swallowing
- Inability to swallow solid foods (eventually liquids also)
- Pain with swallowing
- Food sticking in esophagus
- Regurgitation of undigested food
- Vomiting blood or passing old blood with bowel movements
