Causes

Who is more likely to get oesophageal cancer

It's not always clear what causes oesophageal cancer.

Anyone can get it, but you might be more at risk if you:

• are over the age of 75 (it's not very common in people under 45)
• are a man
• have certain conditions, such as long-term, severe acid reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease), or Barrett's oesophagus

Many oesophageal cancers are also linked to lifestyle. For example, you're more likely to get it if you're overweight, smoke or drink too much alcohol.

Barrett's oesophagus

Barrett's oesophagus is a condition where some of the cells in your oesophagus grow abnormally.

If you have Barrett's oesophagus you're slightly more likely to get oesophageal cancer. But this is not common. It's sometimes called a pre-cancerous condition.

Barrett's oesophagus often does not have any symptoms. But you may have symptoms of indigestion and heartburn.

Find out more

• Guts UK: Barrett's oesophagus

How to reduce your chance of getting oesophageal cancer

You cannot always prevent oesophageal cancer. But making healthy changes can lower your chances of getting it.

It's important to get any symptoms of oesophageal cancer checked by a GP.

Anyone can get oesophageal cancer, even if you do not think you have a higher chance of getting it.

Sexual Health Advice

• Sexual Health Advice - Introduction and Overview
• The MenB vaccine that helps protect against gonorrhoea
• Sexual Health - Mpox and its dangers for Gay Men
• What happens when you visit an STI Clinic
• Ejaculation issues are common sexual problems in men
• The Male Menopause for men in their late 40s to early 50s
• Help and care if you have been Sexually Assaulted
• Mental health issues and self-harm are common amongst gay men