Oesophageal cancer rates in men have risen by 50 per cent over the last 25 years, according to a study by Cancer Research UK. Researchers, who analysed latest available data on the disease, found around 2,600 men were diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in 1983 compared to around 5,100 in 2007. The most dramatic rise was seen among men in their 50s, with rates rising by 67 per cent for this group. Cancer Research UK identified increased levels of obesity as a possible reason for the rise.