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Dr Swarupa Mitra
Dr Swarupa Mitra
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Esophagus Cancer

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the esophagus, a long, hollow tube that runs from your throat to your stomach. The esophagus helps move the food you swallow from the back of your throat to your stomach to be digested. Esophageal cancer usually begins in the cells that line the inside of the esophagus and can occur anywhere along the esophagus.

Esophagus

Esophagus

Cancer

There are two main types of esophageal cancer:

  1. Squamous cell carcinoma: This type starts in the squamous cells lining the esophagus. It typically occurs in the upper and middle part of the esophagus but can occur anywhere along the esophagus.

  2. Adenocarcinoma: This type begins in the cells of glands that secrete mucus in the esophagus. Adenocarcinoma is more commonly found in the lower part of the esophagus, near the stomach.

The exact cause of esophageal cancer is not known, but several factors are known to increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer. These include:

  • Chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Barrett’s esophagus: A condition where the esophagus cells are damaged by stomach acid, leading to changes in the esophagus lining.
  • Smoking
  • Heavy alcohol consumption
  • Obesity
  • A diet low in fruits and vegetables
  • Drinking very hot liquids frequently
  • Achalasia: A rare disorder of the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus.

Symptoms of esophageal cancer typically do not appear until the disease is advanced and may include:

  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Weight loss without trying
  • Chest pain, pressure or burning
  • Worsening indigestion or heartburn
  • Coughing or hoarseness

Diagnosis of esophageal cancer is usually made based on symptoms, followed by diagnostic procedures such as an endoscopy and biopsy.

Treatment for esophageal cancer depends on the cancer’s size, location, stage, and the patient’s overall health, and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments.

Prevention and early detection are crucial. Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help lower the risk of developing esophageal cancer. Regular medical check-ups and seeking medical attention for persistent symptoms like difficulty swallowing and chronic heartburn are also important.