Esophageal cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. It’s a serious condition with a high mortality rate.
Tobacco smoke and excessive alcohol intake are significant risk factors for esophageal cancer. These substances can damage the cells lining the esophagus, leading to the development of cancerous growths.
Chronic acid reflux, a common symptom of GERD, can cause inflammation and irritation of the esophagus, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer over time.
Being overweight or obese is associated with an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer, especially adenocarcinoma, a type of esophageal cancer.
A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed foods and red meat may increase the risk of esophageal cancer. Consuming hot beverages and foods may also contribute to the development of this cancer
This type of esophageal cancer occurs in the lower part of the esophagus and is often associated with GERD and obesity.
Squamous cell carcinoma typically develops in the upper part of the esophagus and is strongly linked to tobacco and alcohol use
One of the most common symptoms of esophageal cancer is difficulty swallowing, particularly solid foods. This symptom usually worsens over time.
Esophageal cancer can cause unintended weight loss due to difficulty swallowing and reduced appetite.
Some individuals with esophageal cancer may experience chest pain or discomfort, especially when swallowing.
A persistent cough that doesn’t go away, especially when accompanied by hoarseness, may indicate esophageal cancer.
Endoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosing esophageal cancer. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth and into the esophagus to visualize any abnormalities.
If suspicious lesions or tumors are identified during endoscopy, a biopsy may be performed to obtain tissue samples for further examination under a microscope.
Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans may be used to determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Surgery is often the primary treatment for localized esophageal cancer. Depending on the stage and location of the tumor, surgical options may include:
Removal of part or all of the esophagus.
Removal of nearby lymph nodes to check for cancer spread.
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery to shrink tumors, kill remaining cancer cells, or stenting in alleviate symptoms in advanced cases.
Robotic and laparoscopic surgeries offer several advantages over traditional open surgery, including:
Minimally invasive techniques involve smaller incisions, leading to less postoperative pain, reduced risk of infection, and faster recovery.
Robotic systems provide surgeons with high-definition 3D visualization and magnification, allowing for greater precision and accuracy during surgery.
Minimally invasive techniques are associated with lower rates of blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and fewer complications compared to traditional open surgery.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of esophageal cancer. This includes:
Smoking cessation can significantly reduce the risk of developing esophageal cancer.
Limiting alcohol consumption to moderate levels can lower the risk of esophageal cancer.
Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can reduce the risk of esophageal cancer.
Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can lower the risk of esophageal cancer.
Vansh Clinics & Diagnostics,
212, Kokapet Terminal, Gandipet Road,
Kokapet, Hyderabad
Hitech City, Hyderabad