18th July 2023

You review a 56-year-old man on the gastroenterology ward who had presented with a first episode of haematemesis

You review a 56-year-old man on the gastroenterology ward who had presented with a first episode of haematemesis. On questioning, he reports a 6-month history of worsening dysphagia to solids and then subsequently to liquids. On examination, he is cachectic and weighs 62kg. He undergoes an upper GI endoscopy, which reveals a bleeding ulcerated mass in the mid-oesophagus. Biopsy results confirm a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus.

Which of the following is not a risk factor for squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.