Adenocarcinoma of the esophagus has
research-proven links to the following risk factors (as opposed to a "suggested" link)
- Caucasian male, over age 65
- smoking
- heavy alcohol use
- obesity
- previous diagnosis of Barrett's Esophagus (chronic esophageal erosion and ulceration due to untreated or undertreated acid reflux)
So, we have no way of knowing if the 687 control group participants were also white males over 65 who smoked and drank heavily, and who also had Barrett's Esophagus.
According to the American Cancer Society, and numerous leading cancer-care organizations ... the recommended diet for esophageal and gastric cardia cancer patients (gastric cardia is the point where the stomach and esophagus join) is to eat soft, calorie-dense foods, since their ability to swallow is impaired, and their appetite is very small. For many patients, it's impossible to swallow bulky, fibrous raw fruits and vegetables, or to tolerate whole grains and legumes. So, they are instructed to eat
milkshakes, ice cream, puddings, sweet custards, mashed potatoes with meat gravies, creamed soups, etc .. Could these be the high animal-fat foods they referred to in the study? Seems to be a lot of sugar and refined starch there too.
Approximately 10% of people with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux) will develop Barrett's esophagus -- and almost always have the other risk factors cited for esophageal cancer, ie, obese white male over 65, smoker, drinker.
There is a strong link between high-sugar, high-insulin and GERD. High insulin levels stimulate certain prostaglandins which lead to inflammation. Reducing sugar and insulin levels, as well as reducing one's weight (increased abdominal pressure from obesity is a contributing factor to GERD) can virtually eliminate the signs and symptoms of reflux problems.
So, a low-carb, high-protein and fat diet will
reduce some of the proven risk factors for this type of cancer. No diet can change your gender or stop you from aging, and no diet can alter the effects of smoking and heavy alcohol consumption.
Doreen