Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting the food pipe.
Risk Factors:
- More frequent in men
- Regular alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Long-standing acid reflux and Barrett’s esophagus
- Obesity
Symptoms:
- Difficulty swallowing, especially solid foods
- Unintentional weight loss
Diagnosis:
- The cancer is confirmed through endoscopy and biopsy.
- To determine the stage of the disease, tests such as CECT, PET scan, and EUS (with or without FNA) are required.
Treatment:
- Early-stage cancer: Surgery offers the best chance of cure
- Advanced disease: Managed with chemotherapy and radiotherapy; surgery may still be considered
- Metastatic cancer: An esophageal stent can be placed to ease swallowing difficulties