Unfortunately, more people may be getting certain types of cancer, according to a recent study.

The Journal of the National Cancer Institute reports the rate of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus has risen over the past three decades by more than 300 percent in white women, and by more than 450 percent in white men.

The reason for the rise is uncertain, but doctors at the Marshfield Clinic in Weston say it may be related to obesity and acid reflux disease, so people should be aware if they exhibit some of the symptoms.

Dr. Rezwan Islam MD, a doctor of Hematology and Oncology says, "If a person who is otherwise having these issues or a long ongoing problem with heartburn, abdominal discomfort, reflux, they should really talk to their doctor and then they may need to have that evaluated."

Islam says the best way to avoid the disease is still a healthy lifestyle.