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Updated: May 18, 2026

Development of Compendium for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: April 12, 2024
Meta-analysis: oral bisphosphonates and the risk of oesophageal cancer
1The Whiteley-Martin Research Centre, Discipline of Surgery, The University of Sydney, Sydney Medical School, Nepean, Penrith, NSW, Australia.
Background:
Bisphoshonates, which are used in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis, have recently been implicated in the development of oesophageal cancer; however, studies report conflicting data.
Aim:
To conduct a meta-analysis of studies reporting on the association between bisphosphonates and oesophageal cancer to quantify the relationship.
Methods:
A search was conducted through Medline, PubMed, Embase and Current Contents Connect to 2 August 2012. We calculated pooled odds ratios and 95% CIs using a random effects model for the risk of oesophageal cancer associated with exposure to bisphosphonates, as well as for the different periods of exposure.
Results:
Seven studies, with 19 700 oesophageal cancer cases, met our inclusion criteria. We found a positive relationship between exposure to bisphosphonates and oesophageal cancer, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.74 with a 95% CI of 1.19-2.55. Heterogeneity was observed (I(2 ) = 85%, P < 0.001). Publication bias was not present. An increased risk of oesophageal cancer was also found in the group exposed to bisphosphonates for a longer period of time, compared with the group who experienced a shorter period of exposure (OR 2.32; 95% CI 1.57-3.43 vs. OR 1.35; 95% CI 0.77-2.39). An increased risk was associated with exposure to Etidronate (OR 1.58; 95% CI 1.12-2.24), but not to Aledronate.
Conclusions:
Exposure to bisphosphonates may be associated with an increased risk of oesophageal cancer. More studies are needed to confirm the relationship.
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