Kim Kardashian has revealed that she has been diagnosed with esophagitis, a health condition that has taken on an emotional meaning for her because of her father’s history with esophageal cancer.
The 45-year-old reality star made the revelation in a trailer for the upcoming eighth season of The Kardashians. In the footage, Kim discusses her diagnosis while visibly emotional, prompting concern from fans because her father, Robert Kardashian, died from esophageal cancer in 2003 at the age of 59.
Esophagitis is inflammation and irritation of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It can have several causes, including acid reflux, certain medications, infections and allergies. Common symptoms can include heartburn, chest pain and painful or difficult swallowing.
The diagnosis does not mean Kim has esophageal cancer. Medical sources distinguish esophagitis from cancer, although long-term inflammation, particularly when related to chronic acid reflux, can contribute to changes such as Barrett’s esophagus. Barrett’s esophagus is associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer, but the progression to cancer remains uncommon.
Kim has not publicly explained what caused her esophagitis or specified what type of the condition she has. Because of that, it is not possible to confirm whether her diagnosis is related in any direct way to her father’s cancer. The connection reported around the story is primarily personal and emotional, given her family history.
Robert Kardashian, who was known for representing O.J. Simpson during the 1995 murder trial, died of esophageal cancer at 59. His illness has remained an important part of the Kardashian family’s history, and Kim has previously spoken about efforts to raise awareness of esophageal health. The family helped establish the UCLA Robert G. Kardashian Center for Esophageal Health in his memory.
Kim’s latest disclosure comes as she continues to document major personal moments on The Kardashians. The new season is scheduled to premiere on Hulu on October 8, when viewers are expected to hear more about her diagnosis and how she has been dealing with it.
For Kim, the diagnosis appears to have brought an especially personal concern because of what happened to her father. While esophagitis itself is not cancer, her family history has clearly made the new health issue more emotionally significant.