Dr. Perdrizet’s five tips for esophageal cancer prevention

Dr. Kirstin Perdrizet, MD, MSc, FRCPC, is a medical oncologist at Osler. Dr. Perdrizet received her medical degree from the University of Ottawa and completed her medical oncology training at the University of Toronto. She completed her thoracic oncology training with a fellowship and earned her Master of Science in Clinical Epidemiology through the University of Toronto.

Esophageal cancer starts in the cells of the esophagus, located in the throat and impacts more than 2,500 Canadians each year.¹ Follow these tips to help prevent esophageal cancer:

Go tobacco- and vape-free

The use of tobacco in any form – cigarettes, cigars and other tobacco products – can increase your risk of developing esophageal cancer. Eliminating tobacco and vaping can also provide many other health benefits. Speak with your doctor today for help to go, and stay, tobacco- and vape-free.

Reduce your alcohol consumption

Drinking alcohol can increase your risk of esophageal cancer. Consider eliminating alcohol all together - if you choose to drink alcohol, have no more than two standard drinks a week. The less alcohol you drink, the lower your risk for cancer.

Maintain a healthy body weight

According to the Canadian Cancer Society¹, research shows that being overweight could increase the risk of esophageal cancer. Consult your doctor about your ideal healthy body weight and how to achieve and maintain it.

Eat well and live well

Eating well not only helps maintain a healthy body weight, but can also help reduce your risk of developing esophageal cancer. Avoid or limit the amount of red and processed meats you eat. Instead, choose healthy protein sources like white meat, fish or legumes, and increase your daily intake of vegetables and fruits.

Find out if you’re at high risk for esophageal cancer

There are many people that have a higher than average risk of developing esophageal cancer. Not all risk levels are equal so make sure you talk to your doctor about your individual risk¹.

1. Canadian Cancer Society