Esophageal cancer occurs in the oesophagus, the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), persistent heartburn or indigestion, weight loss, chest pain, coughing, and regurgitation of food. These symptoms may be mistaken for less serious conditions, often leading to delayed diagnosis.

The main risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and certain dietary factors (like low fruit and vegetable intake). Additionally, conditions such as Barrett’s oesophagus and achalasia increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Treatment options depend on the cancer’s stage and location. Surgery may involve removing part or all of the oesophagus (esophagectomy). Radiation therapy can help shrink tumours, often used in conjunction with chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy may be effective for advanced cancers, focusing on specific characteristics of the cancer cells. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Some Primary treatment options for esophageal cancer are:

• Surgery: Removal of the affected part of the oesophagus (esophagectomy) or the entire oesophagus, often accompanied by reconstruction of the digestive tract.
• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells, typically administered before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumours or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate remaining cancer.
• Radiation Therapy: Employs high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells, often used in conjunction with chemotherapy to enhance effectiveness, especially in advanced cases.
• Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific genetic mutations or proteins in cancer cells, offering treatment options for patients with certain characteristics (e.g., HER2-positive cancers).
• Immunotherapy: Helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, effective in advanced esophageal cancers with specific biomarkers.

Palliative Care: Aims to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life for advanced-stage patients, addressing issues like pain, swallowing difficulties, and nutritional needs.