Elevated Rates of Esophageal Cancer in Swedish Residents on PPI Maintenance Therapy

Observational data suggest excess risks for esophageal cancers associated with PPI use but should be interpreted with caution.

Allegation of harm associated with use of proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) is an ongoing topic that attracts regular mainstream media attention. In the current population-based cohort study, a respected group of investigators in Sweden evaluated the risks for esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in all Swedish adults on PPI maintenance therapy (nearly 800,000) compared with a background population of PPI nonusers.

Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for EAC and SCC were elevated in PPI users, both overall (3.9 and 2.8 for EAC and SCC, respectively) and in those with gastroesophageal reflux (6.9 and 3.4, respectively). Excess risks for both EAC and SCC persisted when indications for PPI use were maintenan…

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors