Causes

The exact cause ofoesophageal cancer is unknown,but certain things can increase the risk of it developing.

GORD and Barrett's oesophagus

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a condition in which a weakness in the muscles above the stomach means stomach acid can travel up into the oesophagus.

In around 1 in 10 people with GORD,repeated damage from stomach acid over many years can eventually cause changes in the cells lining the oesophagus. This is called Barrett's oesophagus.

These abnormal cells are at an increased risk of becoming cancerous in the future, although the risk is still small.It's estimated thatone in every 10-20 people with Barrett's oesophagus will develop cancer within 10-20 years.

Alcohol

Drinking too much alcoholcauses irritation and inflammation in the lining of the oesophagus.

If the cells in the lining of your gullet become inflamed,they're more likely to become cancerous.

These substances irritate the cells that make up the lining of the oesophagus, which increases the likelihood that they will become cancerous.

The longer you smoke, the greater your risk of developing oesophageal cancer.

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Diet

Not eating enough fruit and vegetables may increase your risk of getting oesophageal cancer.

You should aim to eat at least five portions of fresh fruit and vegetables every day.

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Other medical conditions

Certain rare medical conditions can also increase your chances of developing cancer of the oesophagus, including:

• achalasia wheretheoesophagus loses the ability to move food along, causing vomiting and acid reflux
• Paterson-Brown Kelly syndrome (also called Plummer Vinson syndrome) a condition that can cause iron deficiency anaemia and small growths in the throat
• tylosis an inherited skin condition