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 some factors such as smoking or alcohol consumption increase the risk of developing the disease. Genes also play a role. Researchers are now reporting that they have discovered several previously unknown The risk genes for the emergence this type 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 world’s largest analysis of this disease were published in the journal “Gut” released.
Improved patient survival
“Esophageal cancer is a serious oncological disease that requires professional and multimodal therapy”, explains Prof. Dr. Ines Gockel from the University of Leipzig, one of the initiators of the Barrett Consortium and Head of Visceral Surgery at the University Hospital Leipzig in one Message.
“In the last few years it could Survive of patients with esophageal cancer can be improved to a median of 50 months. Nevertheless, our goal must be early detection and identification of risk factors.”according to the scientist.
Steady rise in esophageal cancer cases
In the past few decades, in the western industrialized nations continuous increase in cases of Barrett’s carcinoma (cancer of the esophagus) in the lower third of the esophagus.
In Deutschland About 4,500 people develop Barrett’s carcinoma every year, with men being affected much more frequently than women.
this Krebs is usually preceded by years of chronic irritation resulting from acid reflux from the stomach into the lower esophagus, the gastroesophageal Reflux.
Improve early detection of this type of cancer
The current research work, which includes DNA analyzes from 16,790 patients and 32,476 control persons 16 new risk genes identified as the cause of esophageal cancer.
For the analysis of the DNA, the test persons only had to provide two tubes of blood and a questionnaire on the course of the disease and theirs lifestyle habits respond.
The results of the review work will now be further deepened. The next goals of the international experts are an even better understanding of the causes and development of oesophageal carcinoma and the identification of patients at risk in order to avoid them early detection to improve this insidious disease. (ad)
Author and source information
This text corresponds to the requirements of medical specialist literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been checked by medical professionals.
Sources:
- Leipzig University Hospital: On the trail of the causes of esophageal carcinoma, (accessed: August 28, 2022), University Hospital Leipzig
- Julia Schröder et al.: GWAS meta-analysis of 16 790 patients with Barrett’s oesophagus and oesophageal adenocarcinoma identifies 16 novel genetic risk loci and provides insights into disease aetiology beyond the single marker level; in: Gut, (veröffentlicht: 26.07.2022), Gut
Important NOTE:
This article contains general advice only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.