Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.

People with GERD experience heartburn, acid reflux, and other uncomfortable symptoms due to the failure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. While GERD is a treatable condition, if left untreated, it can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

Background

Esophageal cancer is a rare but deadly cancer that affects the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. There are two main types of esophageal cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the flat cells that form the lining of the esophagus, while adenocarcinoma forms in the glandular cells that produce mucus in the lower part of the esophagus.

There are several risk factors associated with esophageal cancer, including age, male gender, smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and family history of cancer.

In addition, acid reflux and GERD have been identified as independent risk factors for esophageal cancer. The prolonged exposure of the esophagus to stomach acid and digestive enzymes can cause inflammation, irritation, and cellular changes that increase the risk of cancer.

Studies

Several studies have investigated the association between GERD and esophageal cancer.

A large cohort study conducted in Sweden found that people with GERD had a significantly increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma compared to the general population. The risk was particularly high for people with severe or untreated GERD. Another study conducted in the United States found a similar association between GERD and esophageal adenocarcinoma, as well as a weaker association with squamous cell carcinoma.

Additional studies have confirmed these findings, with some suggesting that the risk of esophageal cancer may be further increased in people with a history of Barrett’s esophagus, a condition in which the lining of the esophagus is replaced by abnormal cells. In fact, Barrett’s esophagus is a known precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma, and people with this condition are recommended to undergo regular endoscopic surveillance to detect any signs of cancer.

Treatment

While the association between GERD and esophageal cancer is concerning, it’s important to note that most people with GERD do not develop cancer.

However, it’s still important for people with GERD to manage their symptoms and seek appropriate treatment if necessary. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods, losing weight, and elevating the head of the bed can help reduce symptoms.

Medications such as proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 receptor blockers can also be helpful in reducing acid production and relieving symptoms.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a weakened LES or repair a hiatal hernia, which can contribute to GERD.

Conclusion

GERD is a common digestive disorder that can have serious consequences if left untreated. While most people with GERD do not develop cancer, long-term acid reflux can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

People with GERD should seek appropriate treatment and follow-up to manage their symptoms and reduce their risk of complications.