Esophagus Cancer
About Esophagus Cancer
The esophagus is a muscular tube also known as food pipe in general public transmits food material from mouth (base of pharynx) to the stomach. Cancers of esophagus is one of the deadliest malignancies of human body. The incidence of this malignancy is increasing in general population due to poor life style as well as changes in environment.
Risk factors for Esophageal malignancy
- Smoking and alcohol - smoking for a long duration and chronic alcohol consumption
- Esophageal inner mucosal lining damage from physical agents
- Carcinogens in food and water - nitrates, nitrite, nitrosamine
- Chronic iron deficiency anemia in females leading to plummer Vinson Syndrome.
- Congenital hyperkeratosis of palms and sole called Tylosis.
- Helicobacter pylori infection.
- Long standing Achalasia Cardia.
- Dietary deficiencies of molybdenum, Zinc, Vitamin A etc.
How do I reduce my risk of developing esophageal cancer?
You may be able to reduce your risk by eating well so you’re at a weight that’s right for you and that you can maintain. You may also reduce your risk by avoiding activities such as using tobacco, frequently drinking lots of alcohol or working around certain solvents. Having an HPV infection is a risk factor for esophageal cancer. Ask your healthcare provider if you should receive the HPV vaccine.
There isn’t a recommended way to screen for esophageal cancer. But if you have Barrett’s esophagus or certain other conditions, your healthcare provider may recommend screening. Your healthcare provider may do an EGD to do this screening. If your healthcare provider recommends screening, they’ll let you know how often you should have screening.