Esophageal cancer is a malignant disease that affects the inner lining of the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach.
Esophageal cancer is a serious condition characterized by the abnormal growth of malignant cells in the inner lining of the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. This disease can affect both the upper esophagus (near the throat) and the lower esophagus (near the stomach) and presents different histological types such as squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
Causes and risk factors
The exact causes of esophageal cancer are not fully understood, but there are several risk factors associated with this disease. This type of cancer is more common in people over 50 years old. The main risk factor is excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco, which significantly increases the chances of developing esophageal cancer. In addition, a diet poor in fruits and vegetables, obesity, frequent exposure to certain chemicals and corrosive substances, such as caustic soda, can also contribute to the onset of the disease.
Symptoms and diagnosis
The symptoms of esophageal cancer may include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), pain or discomfort when swallowing, unexplained weight loss, chest pain, persistent heartburn, hoarseness, and persistent cough. These symptoms may be vague at first and progressively worsen as the cancer develops. It is important to note that these symptoms can also be associated with other health conditions, and only a proper medical diagnosis can confirm the presence of cancer.
The diagnosis of esophageal cancer involves a combination of tests, such as upper digestive endoscopy, biopsy of esophageal tissue, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and imaging tests to assess the extent of the tumor.
Treatment
The treatment of esophageal cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health status. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery: surgical removal of the tumor and, in some cases, part of the esophagus and adjacent lymph nodes.
- Radiotherapy: use of high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells or reduce the size of the tumor before surgery.
- Chemotherapy: use of anticancer drugs to destroy cancer cells or reduce the size of the tumor. It can be administered alone or in combination with surgery and/or radiotherapy.
- Targeted therapy: use of specific drugs that act on certain molecular changes present in esophageal cancer.
In addition, supportive therapies such as nutritional therapy, pain management, and psychological support may be recommended to help manage symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.
Conclusion
Esophageal cancer is a serious disease that requires early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to increase survival chances and improve the patient’s quality of life. Prevention of this type of cancer involves adopting a healthy lifestyle, avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoiding exposure to harmful substances. It is essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms, seek medical assistance as soon as possible, and follow the guidance of health professionals for effective treatment.