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Kim Kardashian is opening up about a new health diagnosis that hits close to home.
In a new trailer for “The Kardashians,” the reality star, 45, revealed that she has esophagitis, which is inflammation of the esophagus.
The diagnosis held a particular significance given that her father, Robert Kardashian Sr., died of esophageal cancer in 2003 at age 59.
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In the episode, the Skims founder is seen lying on a hospital bed as someone off camera asks, “Didn’t your father … isn’t it what he died of?”
Kardashian’s manager and mother, Kris Kardashian, became emotional at this suggestion, saying, “I can’t, it makes me want to cry.”
Experts have noted, however, that the two conditions are not the same.
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Kim Kardashian’s diagnosis, esophagitis, is inflammation of the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. It is most commonly caused by acid reflux, certain medications, infections or allergies, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).
Esophageal cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues lining the esophagus, per the National Cancer Institute. There are two main types: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
While esophagitis itself does not directly cause cancer, the chronic inflammation can in some cases lead to Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition that can increase the higher risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. This risk is higher among those with ongoing acid reflux (GERD).
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About 5% to 15% of people with GERD develop Barrett’s esophagus, although most people with Barrett’s do not develop esophageal cancer, the NIDDK states.
For those who have been diagnosed with esophagitis, Mayo Clinic provides the following recommendations to manage symptoms and reduce future cancer risk.
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- If the condition was caused by GERD, take any prescribed acid-reducing medication to allow the esophagus to heal.
- Avoid foods and drinks that may worsen reflux, including alcohol, caffeine, chocolate and mint.
- Wait at least three hours after eating before lying down and stay elevated if nighttime reflux is an issue.
- Lose excess weight and quit smoking, if applicable, to help reduce reflux and promote healing.
- Follow up with a gastroenterologist if symptoms persist or if complications develop.
In another health scare, Kardashian revealed in 2025 that her doctors discovered a small, unruptured brain aneurysm during an MRI scan.
“They’re like, ‘It’s been there for like years. It was here a few years ago,’” she said in an episode of “The Kardashians.”
Fox News Digital reached out to Kardashian requesting comment.
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