Esophageal cancer (EC) continues to pose a significant global health burden, with an increasing trend in age-related cases and deaths, according to a recent study published in Cancer, Biology & Medicine. The research underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate the impact of this deadly disease.

Global Statistics and Trends

The study, led by Yi Teng and colleagues from the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College in Beijing, analyzed data from the 2019 Global Burden of Diseases. In 2022, an estimated 511,054 new cases of EC were diagnosed globally, resulting in 445,391 deaths. Alarmingly, Asia accounted for 75% of these cases and fatalities, highlighting the region's disproportionate burden.

The analysis revealed that between 1990 and 2019, there were declining trends in EC deaths and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) attributable to most risk factors. However, rising trends were observed for EC deaths and DALYs linked to high body mass index (BMI) in men. Age-related EC burden also saw an upward trajectory, driven by population growth and aging, contributing to 307,400 deaths and 7.2 million DALYs globally in 2019.

Risk Factors and Gender Disparities

Tobacco use remains a predominant risk factor, accounting for nearly 50% of global EC deaths and DALYs in men. Among women, a high BMI emerged as a significant contributor, responsible for 20% of EC-related deaths and DALYs.

“The burden of EC remains substantial and shows an upward trend worldwide, particularly in males,” the authors stated, emphasizing the critical need for effective public health strategies.

The Call for Action

To address the growing burden of EC, researchers highlighted the importance of controlling modifiable risk factors such as tobacco use and obesity. With population aging and lifestyle changes fueling the upward trend, proactive measures are essential to curtail the disease's impact.

Efforts to promote smoking cessation, encourage healthy diets, and implement preventive healthcare strategies can play a pivotal role in reducing the burden of EC and improving outcomes for patients worldwide.