Oesophageal cancer in three regions of South Africa.

Cancer of the oesophagus is the commonest cancer in South African black males. The highest incidence rates occur in the south of Transkei. The rate among urban blacks, especially in Soweto, is also high. This study determined risk factors for oesophageal cancer in patients in three different environments--urban Soweto, rural Ciskei and rural-urban Bophuthatswana. Males were affected more than females. The majority of patients in all three regions were smokers. With regard to alcohol consumption, most Sowetans (84%) and Ciskeians (91%), but only 57% of patients from Bophuthatswana, were drinkers. Home-brewed drinks were the main source of alcohol. Oesophageal cancer occurs in both rural and urban environments, affects people without regard to tribal ethnicity, and occurs mainly in the 6th decade; moreover, almost all patients present with advanced disease.