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Can Acid Reflux Cause Cancer?

April 16, 2025

If you’ve ever experienced acid reflux, you know how uncomfortable it can be. But could too much acid reflux increase your risk of cancer over time?

To help clear up the connection, we talked to Justin Van Backer, MD, the medical director of thoracic surgery at the central region with Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute. Here’s what you need to know.

A certain amount of acid reflux is normal.

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows backward into your esophagus — and for many people, it’s not unusual to experience it here and there.

“Some people feel a burning sensation behind their breastbone,” says Dr. Van Backer. “Others might have chest pain, different symptoms or even no symptoms at all.”

A certain amount of acid reflux is normal, especially if you have any of these common factors:

• Being overweight.
• Drinking alcohol.
• Overeating.
• Eating trigger foods like tomato products, spicy or fried foods, peppermint, chocolate, caffeine or citrus.

> Related: How to Choose the Right Acid Reflux Medication

But over time, acid reflux damages the esophagus.

Occasional acid reflux is normal, but frequent episodes can take a toll.

“Over time, acid can burn the lower esophagus, causing inflammation,” explains Dr. Van Backer. “Chronic reflux increases the risk of esophageal cancer because it can lead to a condition called Barrett’s esophagus.”

Simply – the esophagus isn’t built to withstand stomach acid long term.

“The esophagus tries to protect itself by changing its cell types to resemble those in the small intestine, which are better suited to handle acid,” says Dr. Van Backer. “This process, called intestinal metaplasia, is what we know as Barrett’s esophagus.”

> Related: Why Does Alcohol Cause Cancer?

Complications from acid reflux increase your risk of cancer.

Acid reflux doesn’t directly cause esophageal cancer, but it can increase the risk—particularly those with Barrett’s esophagus.

“Barrett’s esophagus, especially when the cells become dysplastic or abnormal, puts patients at a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer,” explains Dr. Van Backer. “In a small number of cases, ongoing acid reflux can cause further damage to these cells and lead to cancer.”

But – there’s some good news. “Early detection is key,” adds Dr. Van Backer. “That’s when we have effective treatment options to help stop it from progressing to cancer.”

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When to see your doctor.

Persistent acid reflux is always worth checking out with your doctor—even if the risk of cancer is low.

While some people don’t notice warning signs, book a timely appointment if you experience:

• Unexplained weight loss.
• Painful swallowing.
• Trouble swallowing or food getting stuck.
• Acid reflux that was well-controlled but suddenly gets worse.

Luckily, acid reflux can be treated with lifestyle changes, medications or surgery if needed.

“Acid reflux is incredibly common in the United States, and only a small fraction of patients progress from it to esophageal cancer,” says Dr. Van Backer. “That said, talk with your doctor about your symptoms—especially if you notice any changes.”