Esophagus Cancer

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells on the lining of the esophagus and spreads to other tissues over time. The esophagus is a tube in the digestive system that helps food pass from the stomach during the swallowing process. When cancer cells begin to grow on the inner lining of this tube, esophageal cancer develops.

There are two main types of esophageal cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma arises from squamous cells located in the upper part of the esophagus, while adenocarcinoma arises from gland cells located in the lower part of the esophagus. Adenocarcinoma is the more common type of esophageal cancer and is often associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease.

The exact cause of esophageal cancer is unknown, but some factors are known to increase the risk of cancer. The following causes and risk factors may increase the chance of developing esophageal cancer:

Smoking: Smoking may increase the risk of esophageal cancer. Harmful substances in cigarette smoke can damage the cells on the lining of the esophagus and cause cancer.

Excessive alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption may also increase the risk of esophageal cancer. Alcohol can damage the lining of the esophagus and contribute to the formation of cancer.

Obesity: Obesity is another factor that increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Obesity can cause inflammation and hormonal changes in the body, which can promote the growth of cancer cells.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition characterized by the reflux of stomach acid into the lining of the esophagus. Chronic GERD can cause damage to the lining of the esophagus, increasing the risk of developing cancer.

Age: Esophageal cancer is generally more common in older people. With the aging process, changes may occur in the cells on the inner surface of the esophagus and the risk of cancer may increase.

Family history: People with a family history of esophageal cancer may be at higher risk than other people. It is thought that genetic factors may affect the risk of esophageal cancer.

To reduce the risk of developing esophageal cancer, it is important to stop smoking, limit alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight, and manage underlying health problems such as acid reflux.

Esophageal cancer usually does not cause symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, the following symptoms may occur:
 

• Difficulty swallowing: Difficulty swallowing solid or liquid food.
• Painful swallowing: A feeling of pain in the chest or throat when swallowing.
• Digestive problems: Indigestion, bloating, nausea and vomiting.
• Loss of appetite and weight loss: Loss of appetite and weight loss for no reason.
• Hoarseness: Hoarseness due to irritation of the vocal cords.
• Chronic cough: Cough resulting from aspiration from the esophagus.
• Vomiting blood or passing black stools: A sign of stomach bleeding.