February 2, 2018 backyardstudios

What Causes Esophageal or Stomach Cancer?

Cancers of the stomach or esophagus are not among the most common types of cancers in the United States, however, the rates of people diagnosed continue to climb. Rising cancer rates may be attributed to an aging global population and behavioral risk factors like smoking and obesity.

What are the common risk factors for esophageal or stomach cancer?
The exact causes of esophageal or stomach cancer remain unknown. However, there are certain risk factors that can make you vulnerable to developing a malignant tumor in your stomach or esophagus:

• Age – Approximately 85 percent of all esophageal and stomach cancer cases are found in people over the age of 55.
• Gender – Men are three to four times more likely than women to develop esophageal or stomach cancer.
• Diet – Those who regularly consume processed meats are in a higher risk category for esophageal cancer as well.
• Tobacco and alcohol – Tobacco and alcohol can damage cells that line the esophagus, which often leads to cancer.
• GERD – People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have a slightly increased risk of developing a malignant tumor in the esophagus or stomach.
• Obesity – People who are overweight are more likely to suffer from GERD, and therefore, are at a heightened risk for developing esophageal cancer.

If you suffer from chronic acid reflux, GERD or other digestive issues, you may want to consider endoscopy treatment in San Antonio. The board-certified gastroenterologists at Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio are ready to help relieve your discomfort and treat your unique medical conditions with compassion and expertise. To schedule an appointment or learn more about how we help San Antonio communities, call 210-614-1234 today. You can also request an appointment using our online form.