Esophageal Cancer Causes

People who are suffering from chronic heartburn are at risk for Barrett's esophagus, which is a severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Barrett's esophagus has been recognized as the cause of esophageal cancer. It's the seventh deadliest cancer in men in the United States alone.

Barrett's esophagus is marked by an abnormal cellular changes in the esophagus lining that, if not treated, will lead to a type of cancer called esophageal adenocarcinoma (also known as esophageal cancer).

The treatment for Barrett's esophagus is a two-prong approach: the use of radiofrequency ablation to destroy the abnormal esophagus lining and stopping GERD or chronic acid reflux as well. Once the bad lining is destroyed, the GERD must also be stopped or controlled otherwise those abnormal cells can grow back and put the patient at risk for esophageal cancer once again.

In the situation where Barrett's esophagus has developed into cancer, the entire esophagus must be removed through a surgery and construct a new one by stretching the stomach.

Barrett's esophagus is most prevalent in middle-aged men, it can affect anyone even those who don't have symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) before. For a safe measure, remember to do full body medical check up yearly if you are already reaching 40 years of age.