Prevention

• Reducing use of tobacco and alcohol can reduce the frequency of squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. At least 90% of cases of this cancer in North America may be attributable to alcohol and tobacco.



• Adenocarcinoma of the esophagus is a frequent complication in Barrett esophagus, which may be found in up to 20% of people with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
  
  
  • People with frequent symptoms of reflux (heartburn or regurgitation) should undergo screening with endoscopy.
  
  
  
  • People with Barrett esophagus should have regular endoscopic tests to detect precancerous changes of the esophageal lining.
  
  
  
  • They also require tight control of the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, which may include dietary and lifestyle changes as well as medications and possible surgery, to prevent progression of Barrett esophagus.

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Esophageal Cancer - Symptoms and Signs

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