Esophageal Cancer Singapore

1. Overview About Esophageal Overview About Esophageal Cancer & Treatment Cancer & Treatment Esophageal cancer refers to cancer of the esophagus, a long hollow tube that runs from your stomach to your throat. Your esophagus is responsible for moving food from your throat to your stomach. The cells that line the inside esophagus are where most esophageal cancer begins. Anywhere along the esophagus can be a site of esophageal cancer. Esophageal cancer is more common in women than it is in men. The sixth leading cause of death from cancer worldwide is esophageal cancer. The incidence rates of esophageal cancer vary between geographic areas. Higher rates of esophageal carcinoma in some areas may be due to smoking, alcohol consumption or a particular diet and obesity. Signs These are the signs and symptoms of esophageal carcinoma. ▪Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) ▪Weight loss without any effort ▪Burning, pressure or chest pain ▪Worsening indigestion or heartburn ▪Hoarseness or coughing ▪There are usually no symptoms or signs of early esophageal carcinoma. When should you see a doctor? If you are concerned about persistent symptoms or signs, you should consult your doctor. Your risk of developing esophageal carcinoma is greater if you have been diagnosed with Barrett’s Esophagus. This precancerous condition is caused by acid reflux. Ask your Esophageal or lung surgeon Singapore about signs and symptoms that could indicate that your condition has worsened. People with Barrett’s esophagus may have the option of having their esophageal cancer checked. Discuss the pros and cons with your doctor if you have Barrett’s. Causes When cells in the esophagus undergo DNA mutations, it is called esophageal cancer. These mutations cause cells to grow and divide without control. An accumulation of abnormal cells can cause a tumor in your esophagus. This tumor can spread to nearby structures and other parts of your body.

2. Different types of esophageal carcinoma The type of cells involved in esophageal cancer can be classified. Your treatment options will depend on the type of esophageal carcinoma you have. There are several types of esophageal carcinomas: ▪Adenocarcinoma starts in the cells of the mucus-secreting glands within the esophagus. Adenocarcinoma is most common in the lower part of the esophagus. ▪Squamous cell carcinoma. Squamous cells are thin, flat cells that line the esophagus’s surface. The upper and middle parts of the esophagus are the most common areas for squamous cell carcinoma. The most common esophageal carcinoma worldwide is called Squamous Cell Cancer. ▪There are also rarer types. Other rare forms include small cell carcinomas, lymphoma and sarcoma. Risk factors Chronic irritation of the esophagus could be a contributing factor to Esophageal cancer. The following factors can cause irritation to your cells and increase your chance of developing esophageal carcinoma: ▪Having gastroesophageal acid reflux disease (GERD). ▪Smoking ▪Precancerous changes in cells of the esophagus. (Barrett’s esophagus). ▪Being obese ▪Consuming alcohol ▪Bile reflux Achalasia is a condition where the esophageal muscles aren’t relaxed and cause difficulty swallowing (difficulty swallowing). ▪Consistently drinking hot liquids ▪Insufficient fruits and vegetables ▪Radiation treatment of the upper abdomen or chest ▪Complications It can lead to complications such as: ▪Obstructive esophagus. Cancer can make it more difficult for liquids and food to pass through your stomach. ▪Pain can be caused by advanced esophageal carcinoma. ▪Bleeding in your esophagus. Bleeding can be caused by esophageal cancer. Although bleeding is generally gradual, it can sometimes be severe and sudden. Prevention

3. There are steps you can take to lower your chance of developing esophageal carcinoma. You can take the following steps: ▪Stop smoking. Talk to your doctor if you smoke. You can quit smoking with medication and counseling. Don’t smoke if you aren’t already ▪Moderation is the key to enjoying alcohol. Healthy adults can have up to one drink per day for women, and two for men. ▪Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Include a wide range of colorful fruits and veggies in your diet. ▪Keep a healthy weight. You should aim for a steady and gradual weight loss of about 1 to 2 pounds per week. How is Esophageal cancer treated? Treatment of Esophageal cancer Singapore is more successful if it is detected early. Many people are not aware that esophageal carcinoma is usually already advanced and has spread to the esophagus. The treatment of esophageal carcinoma ▪Surgery: Surgery may be performed to remove a portion or your entire esophagus. ▪Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy kills cancer cells. ▪Chemotherapy: These powerful drugs target cancer cells in the body and are often used in conjunction with radiation therapy or surgery. ▪Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a newer treatment that targets specific cancers to stop their spread. ▪Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a treatment that stimulates the immune system to fight cancer cells. ▪Photodynamic therapy: A special laser light is used to target cancer cells. ▪Electrocoagulation: To destroy cancer cells, uses electric current. ▪Cryotherapy: To shrink tumors, freeze cancer cells. ▪Endoscopic mucosal removal may be used to treat small, early-stage pre- cancers. For early cancers, radiofrequency ablation is sometimes used. This treatment targets cancer cells using radiofrequency energy.