Our resistance to one of the deadliest forms of cancer may be helped by a glass of wine. The rate of esophageal adenocarcinoma in the U.S. has increased 500% over the last thirty years. It’s a subtype of esophageal cancer triggered by acid reflux which causes Barrett’s Esophagus, a transformation of the cells in the esophagus to the type found in the stomach.

The findings are reported in the March issue of the journal Gastroenterology. One study determined just one glass of wine per day reduced the incidence of Barrett’s esophagus by 56%. The study was conducted by pharmaceutical maker Kaiser Permanente.

A second study in Australia found no connection between the amount of alcohol consumed and esophageal adenocarcinoma however heavy consumption lead to an increase in squamous cell esophageal cancer. To add to the confusion, moderate intake of wine and other spirits were associated with a reduction in the rate of esophageal adenocarcinoma.

The third study in Northern Ireland found no correlation between alcohol consumption in young adults with esophageal cancer later in life. Those researchers concluded wine in moderation may reduce the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Some Doctors believe it is the high antioxidant properties of wine that offer the protection, and not the alcohol itself. Dr. Prateek Sharma of the University of Kansas Medical School is an authority on Barrett’s Esophagus and concludes “it may be that people who drink wine have healthier lifestyles. They may eat more fruits and vegetables in their diets and consume less fats”.

Esophageal cancer is the fastest growing cancer in the U.S.

Tags: glass of wine, reduce risk cancer

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