Kim Kardashian’s Health Revelation: Esophagitis Diagnosis

Kim Kardashian recently revealed an important health diagnosis on “The Kardashians.” The 45-year-old reality star disclosed she has esophagitis, which refers to inflammation of the esophagus. This diagnosis is particularly poignant for Kardashian as her father, Robert Kardashian Sr., passed away from esophageal cancer in 2003 at age 59.

In a trailer for the reality show, Kardashian appears on a hospital bed when someone off-camera references her father’s condition. This moment elicits an emotional reaction from her mother and manager, Kris Jenner.

“I can’t. It makes me want to cry,” Jenner said.

Medical experts clarify that esophagitis and esophageal cancer are distinct conditions. While esophagitis involves inflammation usually due to acid reflux, medications, infections, or allergies, esophageal cancer involves the formation of malignant cells in the esophagus lining according to the National Cancer Institute. There are two main forms: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

Esophagitis does not directly lead to cancer, but chronic inflammation can progress to Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition. People with Barrett’s esophagus face a higher risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, particularly those with ongoing acid reflux.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) notes that 5% to 15% of GERD sufferers develop Barrett’s esophagus, though most do not progress to cancer.

The Mayo Clinic offers guidance for those with esophagitis to manage symptoms and reduce cancer risks:

• Use acid-reducing medication if GERD is the cause.
• Avoid foods and beverages that exacerbate reflux such as alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, and mint.
• Wait three hours after eating to lie down and keep your head elevated if suffering from nighttime reflux.
• Lose excess weight and quit smoking if applicable.
• Consult a gastroenterologist if symptoms persist or complications arise.

Kardashian also shared another health concern regarding a small, unruptured brain aneurysm found during a 2025 MRI scan.

“They’re like, ‘It’s been there for, like, years. It was here a few years ago,’” she commented.