According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, over 500,000 cases of esophageal cancer were noted in the last survey alone, making this particular cancer the 11th most common worldwide. The tendency of its spread actually looks pretty problematic, pointing out the immense need for awareness and early diagnosis.

It is of the utmost importance that once the esophagus cancer has crossed a particular stage (3-4), it becomes very concerning and complicated to achieve better outcomes with the treatment. This is why it is crucial to conduct the test to diagnose the disease at the right time. You will learn about esophageal cancer causes, symptoms, and available treatments from this blog.

What is Esophageal Cancer and Its Symptoms?

The esophagus is a hollow tube-like organ that connects the pharynx and the stomach. It creates a pathway that transports food from the mouth to the stomach. It is composed of many tissue layers: the mucous membrane, muscles, and connective tissue.

Esophageal cancer is caused by irregular cell growth in the lining of the esophagus.

Early-stage esophageal cancer may not show any visible symptoms. However, when they do become apparent, they are usually in the form of:

• Difficulty swallowing food
• Feeling that food gets stuck in the throat
• Chest pain
• Severe coughing that persists
• Blood in vomit
• Hoarseness in the voice

What are the Causes of Esophageal Cancer?

Esophageal cancer develops in the esophagus, the long tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. There are several risk factors and potential causes associated with the development of esophageal cancer, including:

Smoking and Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or using smokeless tobacco significantly increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Chronic heavy drinking, especially when combined with smoking, raises the risk of esophageal cancer. Alcohol irritates the lining of the esophagus and can lead to cellular changes that increase cancer risk.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux can lead to damage and inflammation of the esophageal lining. Over time, GERD can cause Barrett’s esophagus, a condition in which the cells lining the lower esophagus change and increase the risk of adenocarcinoma.

Obesity: Being overweight, especially with abdominal obesity, is associated with an increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. This is partly due to the increased likelihood of GERD and the development of Barrett’s esophagus in obese individuals.

Diet and Nutrition: A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed meats and fried foods may increase the risk of esophageal cancer. Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, C, and E, may also contribute to the risk.

Age and Gender: The risk of esophageal cancer increases with age, particularly in individuals over 60 years old. Men are more likely than women to develop esophageal cancer.

How is Esophageal Cancer Diagnosed?

Here’s a detailed look at the typical steps involved in diagnosing this type of cancer:

Medical History and Physical Examination: Before performing a physical examination, a doctor records all of the patient’s symptoms and medical history.

Endoscopy: This is a flexible tube inserted down the throat, with a small camera at the lower end. It’s called an endoscope, and it helps a doctor examine the esophagus, take samples of tissue for close study, and examine the esophagus for irregularities.

Biopsy: A sample of the esophagus is examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

Imaging Tests:

• CT Scan: Detects tumours and looks for the spread of cancer.
• PET Scan: Search for cancer cells and the extent it has spread
• Endoscopic Ultrasound: The depth of the tumor and surrounding tissues are assessed by this test.

Barium Swallow (Esophagram): Liquid containing contrast material is swallowed, and then X-rays are taken to outline any abnormality in the esophagus.

Blood Tests: Blood tests cannot be used as a definitive diagnostic tool but gives evidence about your general health.

Dr. Deep Goel says, “The earlier esophageal cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment.” This emphasizes that detailed diagnostic tests must be conducted and the symptoms treated immediately.

How important early detection is can be powerfully illustrated by one of the patients of Dr. Deep Goel, who stated, “When severe chest pain and trouble swallowing hit me, I was frightened to the core. “Dr. Deep diagnosed me with esophageal cancer, and although it was a challenging time, his calm guidance and early intervention provided me with hope. Thanks to his care, I am now in remission.”

What are the Treatment Options for Esophageal Cancer?

Treatment choices for cancer of the esophagus will depend on several factors, which include the stage of the cancer, overall health of the patient, location, and size of the tumour.

Some common forms of treatment for cancer of the esophagus include the following:

Surgery: Surgery for esophageal cancer involves removing part or all of the esophagus and, sometimes, nearby lymph nodes. There are two major types of surgery: esophagectomy, which involves removing a portion or all of the esophagus, and esophagogastrectomy, which removes both the esophagus and part of the stomach.

Chemotherapy: It uses drugs to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy may be given before surgery to reduce the size of the tumours. Adjuvant chemotherapy may also be given after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. These therapies are given to patients to reduce their risk.

Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It is usually applied only to cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments. It is mainly used on people who are not fit or able to undergo surgery.

Targeted therapy: This modality involves specific targeting of molecules or pathways implicated in the growth of cancer. It is used for cancers showing specific genetic mutations or alterations.

Immunotherapy: This treatment enhances the body’s immune system’s ability to recognize and attack cancerous cells. It may be used for specific types of esophageal cancer or at the advanced stage.

What is the Cost of Esophageal Cancer Treatment in India?

The overall cost of treatment for esophageal cancer can range from Rs. 2,00,000 to Rs. 4,00,000 (approximately USD 2,400 to USD 4,800).

However, various factors can affect the cost of treatment, including the type and duration of the treatment, the hospital or clinic of choice, and the experience of the medical professionals involved.

Conclusion

Esophageal cancer is a very significant health problem across the globe. The rising prevalence brings attention towards creating awareness and early diagnosis. Awareness about symptoms, causes, and timely diagnostic procedures are thus of utmost importance in the management of this disease.

Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes. Thus, patients should immediately seek medical advice when they begin to show symptoms.

FAQs

1. Can esophagus cancer be 100% cured?

Yes, esophageal cancer can be 100% cured, especially if it is detected and treated early.

2. Can you live without an esophagus?

When the esophagus is surgically removed, a procedure called an esophagectomy can create a new pathway for food to travel from the mouth to the stomach.

3. What should I do if I experience symptoms of esophageal cancer?

Seek medical attention promptly for early diagnosis and treatment.

4. Can esophageal cancer spread to other parts of the body?

Yes, esophageal cancer can metastasize to lymph nodes, liver, lungs, and other organs.

5. What are the side effects of esophageal cancer treatment?

Side effects can include fatigue, nausea, pain, difficulty swallowing, and digestive issues.

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