February 4 is observed globally as World Cancer Day to raise awareness about this disease, which is the deadliest disease in the world. While cancers of the lung, breast and prostate are the most common, increasing incidence worldwide has made esophagus carcinoma, also known as food pipe cancer, the 8th most common cancer in the world, Dr Priya Ashpuniyani, Consultant- Thoracic oncosurgery is called. Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi – A Fortis Network Hospital. She says that squamous carcinoma was more common in Asian countries due to poor nutritional status with excessive tobacco (smoked and smokeless). Gastroesophageal reflux disease (commonly known as heartburn),” Dr Ashpuniani said.
6 warning signs of esophageal cancer
Dr Priya Ashpuniani lists six warning signs of esophageal cancer
1. difficulty swallowing: It begins with solids, requiring water to push solid food down, and gradually progresses to semi-solids and liquids. It is sometimes associated with pain, however, most of these patients do not notice it, as it is painless in the early stages. Usually more than 2/3 of the esophagus needs to be blocked to cause swallowing difficulties; This leads to delay in diagnosis in our country.
2. Stomach irritation: Acid from the stomach refluxes into the esophagus and changes the lining of the esophagus, leading to adenocarcinoma. It is commonly seen in obese patients who have a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits and frequent reflux symptoms. It is also seen in chronic smokers. Awareness of the high risk of turning symptoms of “acidity” into cancer is needed in order to ensure an early visit to the doctor, and timely endoscopy is necessary to catch changes in the esophagus at an early stage.
3. Weight Loss: Along with unexplained weight loss without much effort, loss of appetite can be an indicator.
4. hoarseness of voiceVoice may change to hoarse or hoarse because of nerve involvement.
5. Vomiting blood: There may be blood in the vomit due to a tumor in the esophagus.
6. Persistent cough and coughing up blood: Due to tumor pressure on the airways, or invasion into the airways, it is characterized by a persistent cough, which may also contain traces of blood.
7. Pain between the shoulder blades: This can also be a symptom.
“Timely evaluation by an onco-surgeon with early referral for endoscopy in high-risk patients or patients with mild symptoms is important at an early stage for increased chance of catching or complete cure of esophageal cancer,” says Dr. Priya Adds Ashpuniani.