Cancer of the oesophagus and the use of tobacco and alcoholic beverages in Transkei, 1975-6.

A large questionnaire-based sample survey over a period of 2 years has collected information on tobacco and alcohol use among young and old, male and female respondents in three regions of Transkei selected on the basis of having proved contrasts of incidence experience from oesophageal cancer. Results show significant gradients of social fabric and of customary usage of tobacco and alcohol across the three incidence regions. In particular the concept is supported of a synergistic relationship between tobacco and alcohol when both are used by one individual, with the major role being played by tobacco, especially when smoked in pipes. Stress is also laid on contrasts between old and young on the assumption that dynamic shifts of mortality may be expected to follow as the young of today alter the patterns of intake established by their elders.