Core tip: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a
very prevalent disease with a rising incidence. The disease
is certainly linked to the pathogenesis of esophageal
adenocarcinoma originated in the Barrett’s esophagus.
The carcinogenic properties of the gastroduodenal
contents may also lead to cancer in target organs
for GERD, especially considering that they do not
have intrinsic protective mechanisms as found in the
esophagus. Although strong conclusions cannot be drawn
due to lack of good quality published studies, GERD may
also be linked to the pathogenesis of head and neck and
lung cancers.