Reported Causes And Risk Factors Of Esophageal Cancer

Not Consuming Enough Vegetables And Fruits

An individual's dietary habits such as not consuming enough vegetables and fruits can put them at an increased risk for developing esophageal cancer. Vegetables and fruits contain rich sources of vitamin C, B-carotene, vitamin E, fiber, folate, and antioxidants. Because many of these nutrients are imperative for a healthy immune system that can fight off free radicals, a lack of them can increase the risk of developing many kinds of cancer. A healthy immune system has the ability to attack and eliminate abnormal and precancerous cells before they can fully develop into cancerous cells and multiply. Individuals with a diet that is poor in vegetables and fruits are associated with having a weaker immune system. The antioxidant content of fruits and vegetables helps to neutralize any reactive oxygen species that can cause the cells of the esophagus to experience oxidative stress. Oxidative stress in any cells produces toxic byproducts linked to the development of cancerous DNA mutations. When an individual consumes processed, fatty, and sugary foods in the place of their daily servings of vegetables and fruits, they increase their risk for developing esophageal cancer.