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Esophageal cancer is a disease characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the lining of the esophagus, the muscular tube responsible for transporting food from the throat to the stomach. While relatively less common compared to other cancers, its aggressive nature underscores the importance of early detection and intervention.
Esophageal cancer often remains asymptomatic in its early stages, making it challenging to diagnose. However, as the disease progresses, individuals may experience:
Several factors increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer, including:
Esophageal cancer screening aims to detect abnormalities in the esophageal lining before symptoms manifest fully. While routine screening is not recommended for the general population, individuals with certain risk factors, such as chronic GERD or a family history of esophageal cancer, may benefit from screening tests, including:
A procedure using a flexible tube with a camera to visualize the esophagus and obtain tissue samples for biopsy.
Tissue sampling to confirm cancerous changes and determine cancer stage.
Treatment for esophageal cancer depends on various factors, including cancer stage, cancer type, overall health, and individual preferences. Options may include:
Surgical removal of cancerous tissue, either through endoscopic resection or esophagectomy.
Systemic treatment using powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors.
Targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells or alleviate symptoms.
Drugs targeting specific cancer cell mechanisms to inhibit growth and spread.
Harnessing the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
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