Which of these parts is affected first by esophagus cancer?
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Esophageal cancer begins in the inner lining of the esophagus, and may subsequently spread to almost all parts of the esophagus. The esophagus is a long, slender and hollow tube running from the throat to the stomach. Men are more affected by the disease. Experts estimate that esophagus cancer is the 6th common cause of deaths all over the globe. Smoking and drinking alcohol are the primary causal factors that trigger esophagus cancer.
Which of these is the primary cause of esophagus cancer?
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It is essential to understand that a particular cause has not been pinpointed as the exact reason behind esophagus cancer. However, medical scientists opine that that smoking and drinking are the primary reasons for the condition. Also, long-standing irritation in the esophagus (which happens with achalasia), Barrett s esophagus, and scarring from swallowing lye are known to cause esophagus cancer. You should consider reducing the amounts of spicy foods in your regular diet to avoid esophagus cancer.
Genes do not play a role in causing esophagus cancer.
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The DNA of the esophageal cancer cells tends to show alterations in various genes. However, it is not clear whether changes in particular genes are found in all esophageal cancers. Some individuals inherit the DNA alterations from their forefathers, which increases their of developing certain cancers. Experts note that this cancer does not seem to run in families; this means that inherited gene mutations do not play a role in causing esophagus cancer. If you are suffering from the symptoms of esophageal cancer, you should consult with an oncologist for further diagnosis.
If gastro-esophageal reflux disease is not treated, it may give way to esophagus cancer.
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The stomach secretes potent acids and enzymes to aid digestion. In some people, this acid can escape the stomach and reach the lower end of the esophagus. This condition is referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. This condition creates symptoms like heartburn and pain in the middle of the chest. In some people, GERD does not cause any symptoms at all. If you suffer from reflux disease, you should try to cure it and reduce the risk factors to keep esophagus cancer at bay.
Diet plays a major role in causing esophageal cancer.
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Medical research indicates that particular substances in the daily diet can boost the risk of esophagus cancer. Foods rich in spices and oily substances and processed meats can trigger this disease. Even though the exact cause of esophagus cancer is unknown, people that favor diets rich in fruit and vegetables run a lower risk of esophagus cancer. If you cannot stop eating processed foods altogether, you can at least try to include fresh fruits, salads, and whole grains in your daily diet.