Esophageal Cancer: In today’s busy lifestyle, we often ignore small health problems. Like frequent cough, heartburn or mild difficulty in swallowing, sometimes these seemingly normal symptoms can also be the beginning of a serious disease. One such serious disease is esophageal cancer.

Esophageal cancer is a fast growing cancer. If it is identified in the early stages, then treatment can give good results, but the problem is that its initial symptoms are often mild and people ignore them. So let us know what is esophageal cancer, what are its initial signs and which people are at greater risk.

What is esophageal cancer?

The food pipe is a long tube that connects our throat to the stomach. When we eat food, this tube transports the food to the stomach. When the cells of the inner layer of this tube start growing abnormally and go out of control, cancer is formed. This cancer can gradually spread to the surrounding parts also.

Which people are at greater risk?

Some habits and conditions increase the risk of this cancer. In which its risk increases with increasing age, apart from this it is seen more in men. People who smoke and consume alcohol are at greater risk. Also, people suffering from persistent acidity or GERD, obesity, eating less fruits and vegetables, drinking too many hot drinks are also at greater risk.

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Early signs not to be ignored

1. Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia) – Initially there is difficulty in swallowing solid things, later there may be difficulty in drinking water also.

2. Unexplained weight loss – If weight is decreasing rapidly without dieting or exercise, then there may be cancer in the food pipe.

3. Chest pain or burning sensation – Feeling of burning sensation, pressure or pain in the chest, which people often mistake for gas. This may also be a sign of cancer in the esophagus.

4. Frequent cough or hoarseness – If the cough is not getting better for a long time or the voice has become hoarse, then be careful. This could be an early sign of cancer in the esophagus.

5. Frequent interruptions while eating – Food getting stuck in the throat or frequent coughing can also be a sign of cancer in the food pipe.

How to protect?

It is not possible to completely prevent esophageal cancer, but by adopting some habits, its risk can be reduced to a great extent. In which do not smoke and consume alcohol. Include fresh fruits and green vegetables in your diet. Besides, it is also important to maintain balance of your weight and do exercise daily. If you have frequent problems like cough, acidity or burning sensation, do not ignore it and consult a doctor on time.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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