What is Esophageal Cancer?
Esophageal cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the esophagus grow uncontrollably, forming a mass. There might be no symptoms early on, so regular check-ups are important. When symptoms do develop, they can include:
- Difficulty and pain while swallowing
- Choking on food frequently
- Frequent heartburn or acid reflux
- Unexplained weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chest pain or discomfort
- A persistent cough or hoarseness
- Pain behind the breast bone or in the throat or back
Diagnosis
Begins with imaging tests to look at the esophagus.
A thin flexible tube with a camera may be passed down the throat to see the esophagus.
A sample of tissue may be taken for lab testing.
Treatment
Treatment for small esophageal cancers usually begins with surgery to remove the cancer.
If the cancer grows larger or spreads to other parts of the body, treatment might start with chemotherapy and radiation instead.
Your healthcare team considers many factors when creating a treatment plan. These factors include your overall health, the type and stage of your cancer and your preference.
Risk factors
Conditions and habits that cause irritation in the esophagus.
Risk factors may include:
- A steady habit of drinking very hot liquids.
- Bile reflux.
- Difficulty swallowing because a muscle in the esophagus won't relax, a condition called achalasia.
- Drinking alcohol.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also called GERD.
- Not eating enough fruits and vegetables.
- Obesity.
- Precancerous changes in the cells of the esophagus, called Barrett esophagus.
- Radiation treatment to the chest or upper abdomen.
- Smoking.
How to Lower Your Risk
Certain lifestyle habits and conditions can increase the risk of esophageal cancer, but there are steps you can take to help prevent it:
- Regular check-ups - If you experience frequent heartburn or have Barrett’s esophagus, talk to your doctor about screenings.
- Healthy choices - Maintain a balanced diet, avoid smoking, limit alcohol consumption and manage acid reflux symptoms.
Early detection is key. Discuss screening options with your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms or have risk factors. Join us this April in raising awareness and taking steps to prevent esophageal cancer.
