Smoking and Esophageal Cancer Risk
Smoking is the leading preventable cause of disease and premature death in the United States and is responsible for 29 percent of all cancer deaths. Besides lung cancer, smoking is linked to several cancers of the gastrointestinal tract including cancer of the larynx, mouth, stomach, pancreas, colon and esophagus.
Esophageal cancer is one of the most aggressive and deadly cancers, and smoking is a primary risk factor. The longer you have used cigarettes, cigars, pipes or chewing tobacco, the higher your risk of cancer. You can reduce that risk, however, if you can quit smoking and stick to your commitment.
Join the Great American Smokeout on November 15
The Great American Smokeout is an annual initiative of the American Cancer Society to provide smokers with resources and support to quit smoking. Increased education and awareness over the past few decades have dramatically reduced cigarette smoking, but 40 million Americans still smoke or use tobacco.
This year, the Great American Smokeout will be on November 15, the third Thursday of November. You can participate in this event by planning to quit or committing to create a plan to quit smoking. You can also team up with family members, community groups, local businesses and healthcare providers to put a larger plan into action.
Commit to join the Great American Smokeout and begin a smoke-free life on November 15. When you quit smoking, you’ll also lower your risk for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition characterized by chronic acid reflux.
Visit Your GI Specialist
Make an appointment with your gastroenterologist for a current assessment of your digestive health. Your GI doctor can provide a full examination, suggest diagnostic tests and treatments and support you in your efforts to quit smoking.