When genotypic distribution of TNFA -308 G>A polymorphism was compared between cases and controls, 1.7 fold increased risk of ESCC was observed with TNFA -308 GA genotype compared to GG genotype (OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.13-2.67, P = 0.013). This evidence concerns the gene TNF and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.