The incidence of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma in Jamaica has been decreasing in both genders. Oesophageal adenocarcinoma incidence has been increasing in males, but, unlike data reported elsewhere, has been decreasing in females. Investigation into risk factors for oesophageal adenocarcinoma in Jamaica is warranted.

Human papilloma virus (HPV) can be the aetiologic factor in the benign or malignant oesophageal epithelium. Nested PCR was performed for detection of HPV in non-cancer oesophageal lesions. A third (33.7%) of samples were infected with HPV DNA. This can lead to cell changes that over many years may develop into cancer.