Oesophageal Cancer
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about esophageal cancer.
What is esophageal cancer?.
Esophageal cancer is a rare disease that begins in the esophagus when cell growth becomes uncontrolled. The severity of the disease is determined based on its size and how far it has spread.
What are the symptoms of esophageal cancer?
There are many potential symptoms of esophageal cancer, but they may be difficult to detect.
- Some symptoms may be present andare more likely to occur alongsidecertain risk factors, such as:
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), which usually becomes progressively worse over time.
- Chroniccough.
- Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss.
- Feeling tired or lacking energy.
- Heartburn or acid reflux.
- Indigestion symptoms, suchas frequent belching.
- Coughing up blood.
- Hoarseness.
Pain in the throat or in the middle of the chest, especially when swallowing.
What are the causes of esophageal cancer?
Anyone can develop esophageal cancer, and there is not always a clear cause.
- However, the likelihood of developing it may increase in situations like:
- Many cases of esophageal cancer are linked to lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and smoking..
- Obesity.
- Being over the age of 75. It is uncommon in people under 45, and studies indicate that men are more likely to develop esophageal cancer than women.
- A family history of esophageal cancer.
- Patients with certain health conditions, such as severe acid reflux over a long period, may develop a condition called Barrett’s esophagus, where changes occur in the cellsHPVlining the esophagus due to untreated chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease. In a small number of people, these cells may develop into esophageal cancer over a long period.HPV).
Infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with 12% to 39% of squamous cell carcinomas of the esophagus worldwide.
How is esophageal cancer diagnosed?:
- The doctor takes a medical history, conducts a clinical examination,and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
The attending physician typically performs or requests an upper endoscopy to examine the esophagus.
What are the treatment options for esophageal cancer?
Esophageal cancer is often treatable. However, in some cases, it can be difficult to cure.
- Treatment depends on:
- The size and type of esophageal cancer the patient has.
- The location of the cancer.
- The extent of the disease’s spread.
The general health of the patient.
- Several procedures or necessary interventions may bepart of the treatment, which can include:
- Surgery: If esophageal cancer is detected early and has not yet spread, the patient may undergo surgery to remove it. The surgery will remove part ormost of the esophagus, and in some cases, parts of surrounding organs, such as the upper part of the stomach, may also need to be removed.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is used to destroy cancer cells. A patient may undergo chemotherapy for esophageal cancer:
- Before surgery: To help shrink the cancer.
- After surgery: To eliminate any remaining cancers and help prevent the cancer from returning.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy, which involves high-energy beams, is used to destroy cancer cells.
Targeted therapy and immunotherapy: Targeted therapy and immunotherapy aim to stop the cancer from growing.
- What are the preventive measures against esophageal cancer?
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Follow a healthy diet.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Engage in physical activity.
Treat acid reflux or Barrett’s esophagus.
- What are the complications of esophageal cancer?
- Symptoms related to the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.
- Loss of appetite.
Weight loss.
When should you see a doctor?
- Symptoms may not appear until the disease reaches an advanced stage.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss.
- Feeling tired or lacking energy.
- Heartburn or acid reflux.
- Indigestion symptoms, such as frequent belching.
- Coughing, with blood present in the cough.
- Hoarseness.
Pain in the throat or in the middle of the chest, especially when swallowing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
I am experiencing heartburn, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing. Does this mean I have esophageal cancer?
