Gastroesophageal Cancer 101

If gastroesophageal cancer sounds complex — it is. Gastroesophageal cancer is the broad term for cancer involving the esophagus and/or stomach. Unfortunately, these cancers are often diagnosed in advanced stages because early-stage symptoms like reflux or heartburn are ignored or dismissed as part of everyday life. And there’s no routine screening for gastroesophageal cancer. But knowing the risk factors and what to look for can help catch the cancer in early stages when it’s most treatable. Here’s what you need to know about gastroesophageal cancer. What is gastroesophageal cancer? Gastroesophageal cancer is cancer involving the esophagus, the gastroesophageal junction (where your food pipe connects to your stomach) and the stomach. The most common type of gastroesophageal cancer is gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA). Risk factors for gastroesophageal cancer Long-term irritation of the esophagus and stomach is a common risk factor for gastroesophageal cancer. Other risk factors can include: A diet high in meat, hot beverages and/or smoked foodsSmoking Alcohol useObesity Being over age 55 A history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)A history of Barrett’s esophagus A histo...