Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide, and there are different types that can affect various parts of our body. Some types of cancer can even spread from one place to another, making it even more challenging to treat. One such cancer is oesophageal cancer, which according to Dr Rahul Dubbaka, Consultant – Gastroenterology, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, is aggressive in nature and spreads rapidly.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, he shares that the survival rate of this category of cancer is relatively low. However, in light of the recent advancements in technology and treatments, he highlights that with early detection, the survival rate may increase. He adds that many factors, including the progress of cancer, severity of the stage, size of the tumour, and overall health of the individual, play a crucial role in the success of treatment.
But before we delve into the details, let’s understand what oesophageal cancer is.
Also Read: GERD: Foods That Trigger Acid Reflux and Heartburn
What Is Oesophageal Cancer?
According to the World Cancer Research Fund International (WCRF), oesophageal cancer is the 8th most common cancer worldwide. It is a rare type of cancer that occurs when cells in the oesophagus start to grow uncontrollably, leading to tumour formation.
The oesophagus is the part of the digestive system that connects your throat to your stomach and moves food and liquids from your mouth to your stomach.
‘More Prone In Men Than Women’
Dr Dubbaka says oesophageal cancer is more likely to happen in men as compared to women. In fact, of the 22,370 new oesophageal cancer cases diagnosed in the United States, 17,690 are men and 4,680 are women, whereas of the about 16,130 deaths from oesophageal cancer, 12,880 are men and 3,250 are women, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).
Worldwide, the WCRF suggests that oesophageal cancer is the 7th most common cancer in men and the 13th most common cancer in women.
Can It Be Asymptomatic?
According to Dr Dubbaka, the early stages (Stage 1) of oesophageal cancer can be asymptomatic. However, if symptoms show up, they could be mild in nature and overlooked for other conditions.
“Major symptoms become noticeable when the tumour progresses to a significant size,” he adds, sharing some of the most common signs, including:
- Chronic heartburn
- Difficulty swallowing that becomes harder with time
- Unintentional weight loss
- Persistent cough
- Hoarseness of voice
In the later stages of the disease, individuals can also experience vomiting, pain in the bones, and coughing blood, the doctor adds.
Also Read: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Diagnosis And Treatment
‘Difficult To Detect Early And Challenging To Treat In Later Stages’
Dr Dubakka says, "Oesophageal cancer is rarely detected in the initial stages, and treating it during the last stages makes it more difficult."
"At advanced stages, oesophageal cancer is very aggressive in nature and fast-growing, which can prove tough to treat effectively," he adds.
He further shares that surgery can be technically challenging as the anatomy of the tumour is in close proximity to the heart and lungs. It also includes a set of serious complications, like bleeding, blood clots, or infection post-surgery. Therefore, this form of cancer also requires coordination from multidisciplinary specialties of doctors for a comprehensive treatment.
Moreover, treatments for oesophageal cancer, like chemotherapy, can cause adverse side effects that impact the overall health of individuals, the doctor adds.
Understanding Risk Factors And Regular Screenings May Help
It is important to note that some people may be more at risk of oesophageal cancer than others. As discussed, men are more likely than women to develop this type of cancer. Other factors that contribute to the risk include:
Age: Individuals aged 45–70 have a high risk of developing oesophageal cancer.
Alcohol consumption: Excessive and prolonged consumption of alcohol can be a risk factor as it leads to cellular changes. It can also damage the lining of the stomach.
Obesity: Overweight individuals can develop esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Use of tobacco: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or consuming any form of tobacco is a common risk factor. Prolonged and higher use of tobacco is linked with a higher risk.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Individuals experiencing GERD, or acid reflux, have an increased risk of developing Barrett’s oesophagus.
Dr Dubbaka says, “Detecting oesophageal cancer requires screening tests to be carried out. These include gastrointestinal endoscopy, Barium Swallow Test (BST), gastroscopy, stomach radiography, biopsy, CT scans, etc.”
He adds, “Various factors are responsible for the chances of detecting esophageal cancer, for example, the symptoms of the individual or access to healthcare facilities. Individuals who smoke, consume excessive alcohol, and experience frequent heartburn are encouraged to get screening tests conducted.”