15 Dec 2025 • Gastroesophageal reflux disease was associated with a significantly higher risk of laryngeal cancer, but not other upper aerodigestive tract malignancies, according to a large meta-analysis.

Pooled data from 17 studies, including nearly 1.77 million adults, showed a 65% increased risk of laryngeal cancer among patients with GERD compared with those without reflux (RR 1.65). In contrast, GERD was not significantly linked to cancers of the pharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx, or esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. The association was stronger in U.S.-based studies (RR 1.61) and when GERD was identified using ICD-coded diagnoses (RR 1.93).

The findings underscore the need for heightened vigilance toward persistent laryngeal symptoms in patients with longstanding reflux.

Source: Wiley | Read Full Story