The ACS says that, overall, diagnosis rates have been fairly steady in recent years. A report, however, suggests that esophageal cancer may be increasing among middle-aged people.
Based on data from roughly 5 million people, the researchers found that, among those ages 45 to 64, the esophageal cancer rate nearly doubled from 2012 to 2019.
In addition, the prevalence of Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition, rose about 50 percent in that age group in those years. Barrett’s esophagus, which usually develops when the lining of the swallowing tube is damaged by chronic acid reflux, is considered a common precursor of esophageal cancer.
Factors that can irritate cells in the esophagus, and thus increase risk for esophageal cancer, include smoking, drinking alcohol, having gastrointestinal reflux disease and being obese.
This type of cancer typically has few symptoms until it has become advanced. Then, signs may include difficulty swallowing, coughing, heartburn, indigestion and unexplained weight loss.
Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are among treatment options. Esophageal cancer will prove fatal to an estimated 16,410 U.S. adults this year, according to the ACS.
The researchers, who presented their findings at the 2022 Digestive Disease Week conference, say that more middle-aged people should be screened for esophageal cancer.
This article is part of The Post’s “Big Number” series, which takes a brief look at the statistical aspect of health issues. Additional information and relevant research are available through the hyperlinks.