Objective   To elvaluate the relation between the risk of esophageal cancer and its risk factors by means of meta-analysis.

  Methods   22 results on the risk factors of esophageal cancer were analysed by Meta-analysis.Random effect model is selected to calculate the pooled odds ratio(OR)and its corresponding 95% confidence interval(95%CI).

  Results   The pooled odds ratioes for smoking, alcohol drinking, quick eating, over-hot diet, frequency intake of pickled vegetables, family history of esophageal cancer, unhealthy psychological factor and being fond of salty food were 2.08(95%CI: 1.662.61), 1.51(1.25-1.81), 2.38(1.70-3.34), 2.11(1.67-2.66), 2.11(1.68-2.66), 3.09(2.37-4.03), 2.90(1.84-4.58).1.30(0.96-1.77), respectively.

  Conclusion   Smoking, alcohol drinking, quick eating, over-hot diet, frequency intake of pickled vegetables, family history of esophageeal cancer and unhealthy psychological factor can increase the risk of esophageal cancer, but the effect of being fond of salty food on the esophageal cancer should be studied further.Comprehensive measures pertinent to the above mentioned risk factors should be taken to prevent and treat esophageal cancer.