Three recent studies suggest that moderate wine intake may reduce the risk of the esophageal cancer, adenocarcinoma (AC) and its precursor, Barrett’s Esophagus.  Barrett’s Esophagus arises as a result of chronic acid reflux from the stomach creating “heartburn” and eventually changing the cells from normal to abnormal.  While it is estimated that only 5% of the U.S. population has the syndrome, the risk of esophageal AC is 30-40 times higher than in the normal population.  However, heavy alcohol consumption (defined as more than the U.S. dietary guidelines of no more than two drinks per day for men and one for women) quadruples the risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).  Previous research has suggested that alcohol is a strong risk factor in the development of SCC.

In one study, performed by Kaiser Permanente division of research in Oakland, CA, they found that as little as one glass of wine per day was associated with a 56% decrease in the risk for developing Barrett’s Esophagus.  The study was culled from a larger study on alcohol consumption using three groups:  one with diagnosed Barrett’s Esophagus, one with reflux but without Barrett’s and the third without reflux nor Barrett’s.  Even after controlling for other variables, the results suggested that light to moderate wine consumption reduced the risk of Barrett’s, according the lead researcher Douglas A. Corley, MD.  Dr Corley was quick to caution that these results do not suggest that wine consumption, in and of itself, is protective against Barrett’s and AC.  As wine in high in antioxidants, known to reduce inflammation and possibly protective against some cancers, it may be that element that is effective in reducing the risks of Barrett’s and AC.  At this point, the research suggests that alcohol does not seem to be a risk factor for the development of Barrett’s nor esophageal AC.

The second study, conducted by Australian researchers, suggests that while heavy alcohol intake is associated with an increased risk of esophageal SCC, moderate wine or spirit intake of no more than one drink per day was associated with a lower risk of both SCC and AC.  In addition, there was no reported association between the amount of alcohol consumed and esophageal AC.

A third study, from Belfast Ireland, examined the impact of alcohol consumption on reflux esophagitis, Barrett’s Esophagus and esophageal AC.  They concluded that there was no increased risk of any of the above in early adulthood.  Their results also suggest that the risk of developing any of the three syndromes may be reduced with responsible wine consumption.

Esophageal cancer, while the fastest growing cancer in the U.S., is still relatively uncommon with about 15,000 cases diagnosed annually.  As usual, if you have any doubts or issues related to alcohol consumption and your state of health, it is advisable to consult with your physician.

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Tags: acid reflux, antioxidants, Barrett's Esophagus, eosphageal cancer, heavy alcohol intake, reflux esophagitis