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The oesophagus (food pipe) is a part of the digestive system that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Oesophageal cancer can begin in any part of the oesophagus and most commonly affects people over 60 years. It is a fairly common cancer in the UK and is more common in men than in women. There are two types of oesophageal cancer– squamous cell carcinoma (which begins in the cells that line the oesophagus) and adenocarcinoma (which starts in the glands).
Though the exact cause of oesophageal cancer is unknown, some risk factors for this condition include age, obesity, smoking, tobacco use, and medical conditions like Barrett’s oesophagus or GERD (Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease). Oesophageal cancer life expectancy depends upon the cancer stage at the time of diagnosis.
Common symptoms of oesophageal cancer are:
Your symptoms will guide your doctor and healthcare team on oesophageal cancer treatment options that can be used for you. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit your GP today!
If your doctor suspects oesophageal cancer, they will take a detailed medical and family history and recommend a few tests. These include:
Other tests that may be required are routine blood tests, chest x-ray, endoscopic ultrasound and laparoscopy. Your test results take a few days to arrive, and it is natural to feel anxious and apprehensive about them. If you have been told you have oesophageal cancer, you may require a camera test that gives your doctor an idea about the stage and spread of your cancer. Your diagnosis test results also enable your doctor to determine how to treat oesophageal cancer.
Your oesophageal cancer treatment options depend upon factors like the stage and spread of cancer. Standard treatment options include:
Some advanced stages of oesophageal cancer may require targeted drug therapy.
Before going ahead with your oesophageal cancer treatment, you must be confident about your diagnosis and treatment plan. It is always recommended to get a second opinion for your oesophageal cancer as it helps you get more precise interpretations of your test results, more than one expert’s view on your condition and a comprehensive treatment plan. Feel free to ask your doctor for a second opinion anytime during your treatment journey.
If you wish to consult an oesophageal cancer specialist or seek a second opinion, we are here for you! Contact us today!
If your doctor suspects oesophageal cancer, they will take a detailed medical and family history and recommend a few tests. These include:
Other tests that may be required are routine blood tests, chest x-ray, endoscopic ultrasound and laparoscopy. Your test results take a few days to arrive, and it is natural to feel anxious and apprehensive about them. If you have been told you have oesophageal cancer, you may require a camera test that gives your doctor an idea about the stage and spread of your cancer. Your diagnosis test results also enable your doctor to determine how to treat oesophageal cancer.
Your oesophageal cancer treatment options depend upon factors like the stage and spread of cancer. Standard treatment options include:
Some advanced stages of oesophageal cancer may require targeted drug therapy.