What Causes Esophageal Cancer?
Know the Major Risk Factors with Dr. Kanishka Sarkar
Esophageal cancer is a serious but often misunderstood disease. It develops in the esophagus—the muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. While it may not be as common as other cancers, its aggressive nature and late detection often make it dangerous.
According to Dr. Kanishka Sarkar, a trusted name in gastrointestinal and cancer care, early awareness of the causes and risk factors is one of the best ways to protect yourself or a loved one.
🧬 Types of Esophageal Cancer
There are two main types:
- Adenocarcinoma: Typically affects the lower part of the esophagus and is more common in people with chronic acid reflux.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Often found in the upper or middle esophagus, and closely linked to smoking and alcohol use.
Each type has distinct causes but shares overlapping risk factors.
⚠️ What Causes Esophageal Cancer?
Dr. Sarkar Highlights the Major Risk Factors:
1. Chronic Acid Reflux (GERD)
Long-term gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can irritate the esophagus. Over time, this can lead to Barrett’s esophagus, a pre-cancerous condition that significantly raises the risk of adenocarcinoma.
2. Tobacco Use
Smoking and chewing tobacco directly damage the lining of the esophagus, especially increasing the risk of squamous cell carcinoma.
🗣️ “Tobacco is one of the leading culprits behind esophageal cancer, particularly in South Asia,” says Dr. Sarkar.
3. Alcohol Consumption
Excessive drinking—especially when combined with smoking—can multiply the risk. Alcohol irritates the esophageal lining and promotes cell mutations.
4. Obesity
Extra weight, especially around the abdomen, increases pressure on the stomach and worsens acid reflux, making adenocarcinoma more likely.
5. Poor Diet
A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed or spicy foods may contribute to inflammation and increased cancer risk.
6. Age and Gender
- Most cases occur in people over 50 years old
- Men are more affected than women by a significant margin
7. Family History & Genetics
If close relatives have had esophageal cancer or Barrett’s esophagus, your risk might be higher due to shared genetic and lifestyle factors.
8. Medical Conditions
- Achalasia: A rare disorder where the esophagus has trouble moving food into the stomach.
- Tylosis: An inherited disorder linked with thickened skin on hands/feet and increased cancer risk.
- HPV Infection: May play a role in certain rare cases.
🩺 Can Esophageal Cancer Be Prevented?
While not all causes are preventable, many risk factors can be managed. Dr. Sarkar recommends the following:
- Quit tobacco and limit alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Treat acid reflux early
- Choose a balanced, fiber-rich diet
- Go for screening if you’re in a high-risk group
🔍 When Should You See a Doctor?
Dr. Sarkar urges you to take action if you notice:
- Persistent difficulty swallowing
- Chest or throat pain
- Chronic heartburn or indigestion
- Unexplained weight loss
- Hoarseness or coughing
These may seem minor at first, but early detection can save lives.
🧠 Final Thoughts from Dr. Kanishka Sarkar
“The key to fighting esophageal cancer lies in awareness. Understand the risks, modify your lifestyle, and never ignore persistent symptoms,” — Dr. Kanishka Sarkar