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Understanding Esophageal Cancer

The esophagus plays a vital role in digestion, acting as a pathway between the throat and the stomach. When cells lining the esophagus begin to grow abnormally and uncontrollably, it can lead to cancer.

There are two main types of esophageal cancer:

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma This type arises in the thin, flat cells lining the esophagus. It is more common in the upper and middle portions of the esophagus.
• Adenocarcinoma This type develops in the mucus-secreting glands, often associated with long-term acid reflux or Barrett’s esophagus. It is usually found in the lower part of the esophagus.

Both types require specialized diagnosis and treatment, and that is where the expertise of an esophageal cancer specialist in Cumbala Hospital like Dr. Sanjay Sharma becomes invaluable.

Early Signs and Symptoms:

One of the reasons esophageal cancer is often detected at a later stage is because the symptoms in the early stages are subtle and easily mistaken for common digestive issues. However, being aware of warning signs can help in early diagnosis:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) -Feeling like food is stuck or not going down smoothly.
• Pain or burning sensation while swallowing.
• Unexplained weight losseven without dieting.
• Persistent acidity or heartburnthat does not improve with medication
• Hoarseness or a chronic cough.
• Chest discomfortor pressure behind the breastbone.

If you or your loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to consult an expert like Dr.Sanjay Sharma, a leading esophageal cancer surgeon in Mumbai, without delay.

Risk Factors for Esophageal Cancer:

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing esophageal cancer. Being aware of these risks can help patients and families take preventive measures:

• Tobacco useSmoking and chewing tobacco are major risk factors.
• Alcohol consumption Regular alcohol intake, especially combined with smoking, significantly raises the risk.
• Chronic acid reflux (GERD) Long-term reflux can damage the lining of the esophagus.
• Barrett’s esophagus A precancerous condition often caused by long-term GERD.
• Obesity Excess weight increases pressure on the stomach, worsening reflux.
• Poor nutrition sity Diets lacking fruits, vegetables, and essential nutrients.
• Genetic predisposition Family history of esophageal or gastrointestinal cancers.
• Consumption of very hot beverages Regularly drinking very hot tea or coffee can damage the esophageal lining.

By addressing lifestyle changes and getting regular check-ups from an esophageal cancer specialistinCumbala Hospital, patients can reduce their risks and increase chances of early detection.

Diagnosis – How Esophageal Cancer is Detected?

Accurate diagnosis is the first step in planning effective treatment. At Cumbala Hill Hospital and Bandra, Dr. Sanjay Sharma uses state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques:

• EndoscopyA thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed through the throat to examine the esophagus.
• Biopsy A small tissue sample taken during endoscopy is examined under a microscope to confirm cancer.
• Imaging Tests CT scan, PET scan, and MRI are used to determine the size, stage, and spread of cancer.
• Barium Swallow Test An X-ray study where the patient swallows a liquid that highlights the esophagus.
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) Helps assess how deeply the cancer has invaded and whether nearby lymph nodes are involved.

Getting tested by an experienced esophageal cancer surgeon in Mumbai ensures accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

Treatment Options for Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer treatment in Bandra and Cumbala Hill is carefully planned depending on the type, stage of cancer, and overall health of the patient.

• Surgery:
  • Esophagectomy Removal of the cancerous portion of the esophagus, often performed with reconstruction using part of the stomach or intestine.
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery Whenever possible, Dr. Sanjay Sharma adopts minimally invasive techniques that allow faster recovery and fewer complications.
• Chemotherapy: Powerful medications are used to kill cancer cells or stop them from multiplying. It may be given before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or as the main treatment if surgery is not possible.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams are targeted at cancer cells to destroy them. Radiation may be combined with chemotherapy for better results.
• Targeted Therapy Drugs that specifically attack abnormal proteins in cancer cells without harming healthy cells.
• Immunotherapy:A modern approach where the body’s immune system is stimulated to fight cancer more effectively.
• Endoscopic Treatments:For very early cancers, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) can remove the cancer without the need for major surgery.

Living with Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. That’s why Dr. SanjaySharma and his team focus not just on treating the disease but also on supporting patients in every aspect of recovery

• Nutritional Support :Special diets and feeding plans help patients maintain strength during treatment.
• Pain and Symptom Management : Focus on comfort and improving daily living.
• Emotional and Psychological Support : Counseling and patient support groups
• Rehabilitation Drugs that specifically attack abnormal proteins in cancer cells without harming healthy cells.