Heartburn can lead to specifically oesophageal cancer. Heartburn is caused by acid reflux which is when acid is splashed up into the oesophagus. This can trigger painful symptoms such as scratchy throat or constant cough. As the years go by, acid reflux may cause cell changes in the oesophagus and this can lead to a precancerous stage called Barrett’s Oesophagus. If left untreated, it can progress to full-blown oesophageal cancer.