PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR MALIGNANT NEOPLASM OF THE ESOPHAGE IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

Abstract

Introduction: Malignant neoplasm of the esophagus is a serious disease that affects the esophagus and presents high global morbidity and mortality rates. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type; however, there has been an increase in the incidence of adenocarcinoma associated with the growth of obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Objective: To identify, in the literature, preventive measures that contribute to reducing the incidence of esophageal cancer and to early diagnosis within primary health care. Methodology: This study is an integrative literature review conducted in January 2026 using the Virtual Health Library (VHL) and its databases SciELO and LILACS, using the descriptors: esophageal neoplasm, prevention and primary care combined with the Boolean operator AND. Results and discussion: The development of this neoplasm is directly related to patients' habits, highlighting the importance of preventive actions such as discouraging smoking, alcohol consumption and very hot beverages, as well as encouraging physical activity and healthy eating habits. Conclusion: Esophageal cancer is directly related to modifiable risk factors, which reinforces the importance of health promotion in Primary Health Care for reducing disease incidence and promoting early diagnosis.