Esophageal Cancer Causes
10. Obesity
Obesity increases the risk for esophageal adenocarcinoma but not for squamous cell carcinoma. People in the highest quartile for body mass index (>30 kg/m²) have a higher risk of developing cancer of the esophagus (adenocarcinoma) than those in the lowest quartile.
The risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is higher in people with obesity. Consequently, so is the risk for Barret’s esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. This is given by an increase in the pressure within the stomach, increased risk of a hiatal hernia, and changes in normal LES function. It is also widely known that obesity has an inflammatory effect on the body that can lead to metabolic syndrome, which has also been linked with the risk of esophageal cancer.
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