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Life Tips 23/06/2025 16:52

Seemingly harmless eating habits are silently destr0ying cells, increasing the r!sk of esophageal canc3r

Esophageal cancer is becoming a significant health threat. This article will explore the key risk factors, high-risk groups, and underlying conditions that may lead to esophageal cancer, helping you gain a deeper understanding of this dangerous disease.
Esophageal cancer is a malignant tumor that originates from the epithelial cells of the esophagus. The distribution of this cancer shows that approximately half of the cases are located in the middle part of the esophagus, more than 30% in the lower section, and less than 20% in the upper part. Esophageal cancer is mainly categorized into two types: squamous cell carcinoma, which starts from the squamous epithelium of the esophagus, and adenocarcinoma, which originates from the glandular epithelium. There is also undifferentiated cancer, which has a high malignancy level and a low degree of differentiation.
According to data from K Hospital, the incidence of esophageal cancer is relatively high, making early diagnosis and treatment essential. Patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer at an early stage have a significantly higher survival rate and better quality of life compared to those diagnosed in later stages.

Risk Factors for Esophageal Cancer
Physical Factors
Consistently consuming extremely hot food or drinks, such as hot soups and spicy food, can cause chronic damage to the esophageal lining. The repeated cycle of injury and healing can lead to DNA mutations in the esophageal cells, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.
Chemical Factors
Eating foods that contain nitrites, which are converted into nitrosamines by bacteria in the body, is a known carcinogen associated with the development of esophageal cancer.
Biological Factors
Infections by certain microorganisms can also lead to esophageal cancer. For example, infections with the human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated foods (such as moldy grains) have been linked to esophageal cancer. Aflatoxin is a recognized carcinogen that increases the risk of developing this cancer.
Genetic Factors
Studies show that esophageal cancer tends to run in families. If a family member has had esophageal cancer, the risk of developing the disease increases for other family members.
Dietary Habits and Nutrient Deficiencies
Regular consumption of pickled foods, along with a lack of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially vitamin A deficiency and a lack of selenium in the water and soil, can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.
Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits
Fast eating, consumption of coarse or irritating foods that often mechanically stimulate the esophageal lining, and exposure to nicotine and harmful chemicals in tobacco can also irritate the esophagus. Long-term betel nut chewing has also been proven to be linked to the development of esophageal cancer.
Chronic Inflammation Response
Repeated local irritation can damage esophageal cells, and over time, abnormal cell proliferation, due to DNA mutations, can turn normal cells into cancerous cells. These cancer cells multiply uncontrollably and consume nutrients from healthy cells, eventually forming a tumor.
Who is at High Risk for Esophageal Cancer?
Genetics plays a critical role in the development of esophageal cancer. Individuals with a family history of the disease have a higher risk due to genetic factors.
Gender and age are also significant factors. Men are more likely to develop esophageal cancer than women. Older individuals are at higher risk than younger people due to the natural decline in bodily functions and prolonged exposure to cancer-causing factors.
Additionally, geographical location can play a role. Some regions may have a higher rate of esophageal cancer due to local lifestyle habits, environmental factors, or specific dietary practices. People from areas with high cancer rates should be particularly vigilant.
Based on these factors, we can identify high-risk groups, such as men over the age of 45, those from areas with high incidence rates, and those with a family history of the disease. These individuals should undergo regular endoscopic exams to detect esophageal cancer early, improving their chances of successful treatment and survival.
Esophageal Conditions That Can Lead to Esophageal Cancer
Barrett’s esophagus is a well-known pre-cancerous condition that significantly increases the risk of esophageal cancer. First described by Dr. Barrett, this condition occurs when chronic inflammation, genetic factors, or other elements damage the squamous epithelium, and the regenerative cells transform into columnar cells similar to those found in the stomach or intestines.
This transformation, called metaplasia, makes Barrett’s esophagus 30 to 50 times more likely to develop into cancer than normal esophageal tissue. As such, Barrett’s esophagus is closely monitored in clinical practice, with recommendations for patients to undergo regular endoscopic exams to track any changes.
Other esophageal conditions can also be linked to the development of esophageal cancer. Chronic, recurrent esophagitis, particularly from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), if left untreated for extended periods, can elevate the risk of cancer. Additionally, conditions such as esophageal diverticula and esophageal ulcers may contribute to the development of esophageal cancer.
These conditions, if continually irritated by external factors, can lead to chronic esophagitis, which may then progress to cancer. Therefore, early detection and active treatment of benign esophageal conditions are crucial in preventing esophageal cancer.

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