Oesophageal cancer
The oesophagus is the ‘gullet’. Each year, 7,500 people in the UK develop one of two types of oesophageal cancer – squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma.
Heavy use of alcohol and tobacco increase the risk of developing these cancers. Symptoms of oesophageal cancer include weight loss or swallowing difficulties with pain, pressure or burning. People may also develop a hoarse voice or cough.
A diagnosis is made after a medical examination, barium meal and endoscopy. Radical surgery (with or without chemotherapy) aimed at curing the disease is possible for 30% of people diagnosed, depending on the site of the tumour and their general health.
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy may also be used together or singly to treat this type of cancer. If the cancer is causing a blockage in the gullet a stent (a hollow plastic or metal tube) may be inserted to keep the gullet open to allow the passage of food.
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After treatment, dietary advice can be particularly helpful
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Regular dilatation of the oesophagus may be needed to keep the gullet open.
Further information
Cancerbackup
www.cancerbackup.org.uk
CancerHelp
www.cancerhelp.org.uk
Oesophageal Patients Association
www.opa.org.uk
Core
www.corecharity.org.uk
World Cancer Research Fund (UK)
www.wcrf-uk.org
Support
Oesophageal Patients Association
www.opa.org.uk
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