Analysis of living habit risk factors for esophageal cancer in central China: a bi-center case-control study

Background: Esophageal cancer remains a public health problem in many countries, especially developing countries. The early lifestyle preventive measures mentioned in the treatment guidelines for esophageal cancer are very limited. We aimed to To explore the correlation between unhealthy lifestyles and the incidence of esophageal cancer in areas with a high incidence of esophageal cancer in China and to provide evidence for clinical intervention in esophageal cancer prevention. Methods: : Symptom and lifestyle/habit questionnaires included 19 items were designed. The questionnaire results were subjected to correlation analysis relative to esophageal cancer symptom onset. A total of 708 subjects (365 esophageal cancer, 343 non-esophageal cancer) enrolled from two hospitals in central China (Linzhou Esophageal Cancer Hospital and The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University) completed symptom and lifestyle/habit questionnaires. Results: : The top lifestyle factors related to esophageal cancer were eating too fast, drinking, hot drinks, smoking and overeating. Univariate analysis showed that 15 factors, including male sex, smoking, drinking, eating too fast, overeating, hot drinks, and greasy food, were associated with esophageal cancer (p<0.05). Logistic multivariate regression analysis revealed the following risk factors for esophageal cancer [with odds ratios (ORs)]: drinking (3.445), hot drinks (2.656), overeating (2.068), eating too fast (1.857), strong tea (1.845), hard food (1.705), and smoking (1.690). Conclusion: The unhealthy lifestyles of patients in high-incidence areas of esophageal cancer in central China are significantly associated with the incidence of esophageal cancer. Lifestyle changes that address these factors, especially overeating and eating too fast, which are rarely studied or discussed despite being common, may improve esophageal cancer management and treatment outcomes. The present results may be used as a reference for preventive education and treatment.