Use of alcohol or tobacco are major risk factors that increase a person's risk of developing esophageal cancer. The use of both alcohol and tobacco significantly increase risk. Tobacco, including cigarettes and smokeless chewing tobacco. Use of pipes or cigars also may increase risk. Age over 60.
Esophageal cancer is more common in men.
A potential complication of long-term gastric reflux which irritates the esophagus, Barrett's Esophagus is a condition that is considered precancerous. The irritated cells may progress into adenocarcinoma. People who have had other head and neck cancers are more likely to develop cancer of the esophagus. The most controllable way to lessen risk of esophageal cancer is to limit or avoid using tobacco or alcohol. Severe weight loss.