Previously unknown risk genes for the development of esophageal cancer identified – healing practice

Esophageal cancer: 16 new risk genes identified

Despite decades of research, the causes of esophageal cancer not yet clearly clarified. However, it is known that certain factors such as smoking or alcohol consumption increase the risk of developing the disease. Genes also play a role. Researchers now report that they have discovered several previously unknown risk genes for the emergence this kind of cancer could identify.

An international research group with the participation of the University Medical Center Leipzig has identified previously unknown genes that are partly responsible for the development of esophageal cancer. The results of what is currently the largest global analysis of this disease have been published in the journal “Good“published.

Improved patient survival

“Esophageal cancer is a serious oncological disease that requires professional and multimodal therapy”explains Prof. Dr. Ines Gockel of the University of Leipzig, one of the initiators of the Barrett consortium and responsible for visceral surgery at the University Hospital of Leipzig in a Message.

“In recent years, he could To survive of esophageal cancer patients can be improved at a median of 50 months. Nevertheless, our focus must be on early detection and identification of risk factors.”according to the scientist.

Steady rise in cases of esophageal cancer

In recent decades, in Western industrialized countries continuous increase in case of Barrett’s carcinoma (oesophageal cancer) in the lower third of the esophagus.

In Germany Around 4,500 people develop Barrett’s carcinoma each year, with men being affected much more frequently than women.

This cancer is usually preceded by years of chronic irritation resulting from acid reflux from the stomach down the esophagus, gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Improve the early detection of this type of cancer

Ongoing research, which includes DNA analyzes of 16,790 patients and 32,476 control individuals 16 new genes at risk identified as the cause of esophageal cancer.

For DNA analysis, those tested only had to provide two tubes of blood and a questionnaire about the course of the disease and their own. life habits answer.

The results of the review work will now be further investigated. The next goals of the international experts are an even better understanding of the causes and evolution of esophageal carcinoma and the identification of patients at risk in order to avoid them. early detection to ameliorate this insidious disease. (ad)