Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer occurs in the esophagus, the muscular tube in which food passes through from the mouth into the stomach.

Factors that may increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer include:

Advanced age
A diet low in vital nutrients found in fruits and vegetables
Smoking
Heavy consumption of alcohol
Chronic acid reflux which can damage the lining of the esophagus.
Obesity

Symptoms of esophageal cancer

Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Pain in the chest or back
Getting food stuck in the esophagus
Heartburn
Change in voice or a hoarseness that lasts several weeks
Persistent cough
Decreased appetite and extreme weight loss

Diagnosis of esophageal cancer

Blood test
Endoscopy
Endoscopic ultrasounds for precise assessment of the tumor
Biopsy to remove a tissue sample from the esophagus
CT scan or MRI of the chest, abdomen and pelvis to assess whether the disease has spread to other areas of the body
Whole body PET scan, a nuclear test that is used to assess the extent of disease

Treatment of esophageal cancer at KHCC

Surgery is the first form of treatment in patients with early-stage esophageal cancer. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are determined depending on the stage of the cancer.