Esophageal Cancer

Esophagus Triumph: Empowering Lives, Defeating Cancer

At Universal Hospital, our dedicated team of specialists, including gastroenterologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiologists, and support staff, is committed to providing comprehensive and personalized care for individuals facing esophageal cancer. Esophageal cancer develops in the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.

What is Esophageal Cancer?

Esophageal cancer occurs when cancer cells develop in the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. There are two main types of esophageal cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

Risk Factors:

Several factors may increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer, including:

Age: The risk increases with age, and esophageal cancer is more common in people over the age of 50.
Gender: Men are more likely to develop esophageal cancer than women.
Tobacco and Alcohol Use: Heavy and long-term use of tobacco and alcohol increases the risk.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux can lead to Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition.
Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus.
Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to the risk.

Symptoms:

Esophageal cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include:

Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Unintended weight loss
Chest pain or discomfort
Chronic cough or hoarseness
Indigestion or heartburn

Diagnosis:

Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed down the throat to examine the esophagus.
Biopsy: A small sample of tissue is taken for examination under a microscope.
Imaging Tests: CT scans, PET scans, and barium swallow studies may be used to assess the extent of the cancer.

Treatment:

Treatment options for esophageal cancer depend on the stage of the cancer and may include:

Surgery: Removal of part or all of the esophagus.
Radiation Therapy: High-dose radiation to target and kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Medications to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.

Prognosis:

The prognosis for esophageal cancer varies depending on the stage at which it is diagnosed and the effectiveness of treatment. Early detection and intervention improve the chances of successful treatment.

Support and Resources:

Living with esophageal cancer may require support. Patients and their families can benefit from support groups, counseling, and educational resources provided by healthcare organizations.

Esophageal Cancer Care at Universal Hospital:

Multidisciplinary Esophageal Cancer Team:

Our hospital is equipped with a multidisciplinary team of experts who collaborate to provide a comprehensive approach to esophageal cancer care. This team includes gastroenterologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiologists, and support staff.

Advanced Diagnostic Technologies:

Universal Hospital employs state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies, including endoscopy, CT scans, MRI, and biopsy procedures, to accurately diagnose and stage esophageal cancer.

Personalized Treatment Plans:

Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s specific diagnosis, considering factors such as the type of esophageal cancer, tumor location, size, and the patient’s overall health. Our goal is to provide the most effective and personalized care for every individual.