Esophageal Cancer Prevention

There is no guaranteed way to prevent esophageal cancer. However, several important risk factors can be changed. Taking steps to reduce these risks may lower your chance of developing the disease.

Avoid tobacco

Not using tobacco is one of the most important ways to lower your risk of esophageal cancer. If you currently smoke, quitting can reduce your future risk of esophageal cancer and many other diseases.

Limit alcohol

Heavy alcohol consumption is strongly associated with squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. Risk is especially high among people who both smoke and drink heavily.

Maintain a healthy weight

Excess body weight increases the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced eating pattern and regular physical activity may help lower risk.

Eat a nutritious diet

Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is associated with a lower risk of esophageal cancer. Try to regularly include:

• Vegetables

• Fruits

• Whole grains

• Beans and legumes

• Other nutrient-rich foods

Manage chronic reflux

Occasional heartburn is extremely common and does not mean you will develop cancer. However, persistent GERD increases the risk of Barrett's esophagus and adenocarcinoma. If you experience frequent reflux, talk with your healthcare provider about treatment and whether further evaluation is appropriate.

Follow your surveillance plan if you have Barrett's esophagus

Barrett's esophagus is considered a precancerous condition, but most people who have it will never develop esophageal cancer. Your gastroenterologist may recommend periodic endoscopy and biopsies. If dysplasia develops, endoscopic treatments can sometimes remove or destroy abnormal cells before they become invasive cancer.

Know your personal risk

Some risk factors, including age, sex, genetics, and certain medical conditions, cannot be changed. Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual risk factors and whether you need additional monitoring.