*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

Causes

Who is more likely to get oesophageal cancer

It's not always clear what causes oesophageal cancer.

Anyone can get it, but you might be more at risk if you:

are over the age of 75 (it's not very common in people under 45)
are a man
have certain conditions, such as long-term, severe acid reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease), or Barrett's oesophagus

Many oesophageal cancers are also linked to lifestyle. For example, you're more likely to get it if you're overweight, smoke or drink too much alcohol.

Barrett's oesophagus

Barrett's oesophagus is a condition where some of the cells in your oesophagus grow abnormally.

If you have Barrett's oesophagus you're slightly more likely to get oesophageal cancer. But this is not common. It's sometimes called a pre-cancerous condition.

Barrett's oesophagus often does not have any symptoms. But you may have symptoms of indigestion and heartburn.

Find out more

Guts UK: Barrett's oesophagus

How to reduce your chance of getting oesophageal cancer

You cannot always prevent oesophageal cancer. But making healthy changes can lower your chances of getting it.

Do

try to lose weight if you're overweight
let hot drinks cool down a bit before drinking, so they do not damage your oesophagus
try to cut down on alcohol - avoid drinking more than 14 units a week
try to quit smoking

It's important to get any symptoms of oesophageal cancer checked by a GP.

Anyone can get oesophageal cancer, even if you do not think you have a higher chance of getting it.

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
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