Esophageal Cancer

Causes

• Tobacco Use: Smoking and chewing tobacco.
• Alcohol Consumption: Excessive drinking.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux.
• Barrett’s Esophagus: A condition where the cells lining the esophagus change due to
  chronic acid exposure.
• Diet: Low intake of fruits and vegetables, high intake of processed meats.
• Obesity: Excess body weight.
• Age: More common in people over 60.
• Genetics: Family history of esophageal cancer.
• Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation treatment to the chest or upper abdomen.

Symptoms

• Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Painful or difficult swallowing.
• Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss.
• Chest Pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest.
• Hoarseness: Changes in the voice or persistent hoarseness.
• Chronic Cough: Persistent cough.
• Indigestion: Persistent heartburn or indigestion.
• Vomiting: Sometimes with blood.

Types

• Adenocarcinoma: Most common in the lower part of the esophagus, often associated
  with GERD and Barrett’s esophagus.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Most common in the middle part of the esophagus, often
  linked to tobacco and alcohol use.

Diagnosis

• Endoscopy: Using a flexible tube with a camera to examine the esophagus.
• Biopsy: Removing a small tissue sample for testing.
• Barium Swallow: X-ray imaging after swallowing a barium solution.
• CT Scan: Imaging to determine the extent of cancer spread.
• PET Scan: Imaging to detect cancerous activity in the body.
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Using sound waves to create detailed images of the esophagus and surrounding tissues.

Treatment

• Surgery: Removing part or all of the esophagus (esophagectomy).
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill cancer cells, often used before or after surgery.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific aspects of cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting the body's immune system to fight cancer.
• Palliative Care: Managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Prevention

• Avoid Tobacco: Do not smoke or use smokeless tobacco.
• Limit Alcohol: Reduce alcohol consumption.
• Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Maintain Healthy Weight: Avoid obesity.
• Treat GERD: Manage acid reflux with lifestyle changes and medication.
• Regular Checkups: Especially if you have risk factors like Barrett’s esophagus.