Esophageal Cancer

According to the International Journal of Advanced Medical and Health Research, oesophageal cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer-related deaths in India. It affects both men and women. Oesophageal cancer is treatable if diagnosed early. But if it spreads to other parts of your body, treatment can be restricted.

So, what exactly causes this cancer, why does it form, and most importantly, what can you do to prevent future complications?

Oesophageal cancer is one of the most common yet malignant diseases. It can develop anywhere in the oesophagus (the food pipe) that carries food from your throat to your stomach. This malignant disease occurs when the cells in the lining of the oesophagus start to grow abnormally and eventually form a tumour, called oesophageal cancer.

Detection of oesophageal cancer at an early stage can be difficult, as it often doesn’t cause symptoms. Here are some common signs to watch for:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss even without dieting
• Persistent chest pain or a burning sensation
• Frequent indigestion that does not respond to treatment
• Chronic cough that does not go away easily
• Feeling like food is stuck in the throat

If you have these symptoms, especially if they persist, it is important to see a doctor. Early detection is key to effective treatment.

Oesophageal cancer begins when cells in the oesophagus grow and divide uncontrollably, forming tumours. This can happen due to chronic irritation of the oesophagus. It is often caused by multiple factors, like acid reflux, smoking, and heavy alcohol use. Over time, this irritation damages cells, increasing the risk of cancerous changes.

There are two main types of oesophageal cancer:

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This type starts in the flat cells that line the oesophagus and is often linked to smoking and alcohol use.
• Adenocarcinoma: This type of cancer begins in the glandular cells that produce mucus and usually occurs in the lower part of the oesophagus. It is commonly associated with acid reflux and obesity.

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing oesophageal cancer, including:

• Smoking and heavy alcohol use
• Chronic acid reflux (GERD)
• Obesity
• A diet low in fruits and vegetables
• A history of esophageal injury or inflammation

Your doctors diagnose oesophageal cancer using various tests, including:
Endoscopy: In this procedure, a camera-tipped tube is used to put inside the oesophagus for abnormalities.
Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken during endoscopy and examined for cancer cells.
Imaging tests: CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans help determine the cancer’s size and whether it has spread.

Treatment for oesophageal cancer depends on the cancer’s stages, size, and the overall health of the patient. Common options include:

• Surgery: It is performed to remove part or all of the oesophagus to eliminate the cancer.
• Radiation Therapy: Using targeted radiation to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to attack cancer cells throughout the body.]
• Targeted Therapy: Medications target specific cancer cell proteins to slow growth.

Each treatment plan is customised as per the patient's requirements, often combining methods to improve results.